Country footy: Ex-AFL defender Shaun Atley signs for GVL club Rochester

A recently delisted AFL veteran is returning to the bush for the 2022 season as he prepares for a family reunion.

Former North Melbourne defender Shaun Atley will join Rochester. Pic: Michael Klein

The Goulburn Valley league’s frantic off-season recruitment has gone to another level with the arrival of another ex-AFL player.

On Sunday, Rochester confirmed the signing of Shaun Atley who was recently delisted by North Melbourne after 234 games.

Atley will link up with his brothers Joe, who was Essendon’s VFL captain in 2021, and Jacob while also being closer to his parents who live in the area.

Tigers coach Steve Stroobants described the 29-year-old’s arrival as “huge”.

“From our previous discussions with Shaun we knew he might be keen to have a kick at Rochy when he finished up in the AFL,” he said.

“Unfortunately his career came to an end sooner than he would have liked but once we heard what was happening we were onto him pretty quickly.

“His experience will be huge for us, especially those younger guys who will get to run out with him every week. He’ll also be able to help out the coaching staff and I with a different point of view.

“But it would be fantastic if there is a chance all three Atley boys do get to play together next season.”

During his AFL career, Atley was predominantly used as a running defender with his line breaking ability often a highlight of his game.

But Stroobants said he expects his newest recruit to play further up the ground at Moon Oval.

“We’ll probably look to play him in the midfield,” he said.

“That will allow him to use his explosive speed. He covers the ground really well and has a booming kick which will have our forwards very excited.”

Atley’s arrival will help offset the loss of Logan Austin who has taken on the senior coaching role at Bairnsdale for next season.

Despite the departure of the former Port Adelaide and St Kilda defender, the Tigers have welcomed back returning faces.

Doug Wren will pull on the yellow and black after a season with Shepparton United while James McPhee returns from Lockington Bamawm United in the Heathcote District league.

“We feel we will be pretty strong again,” Stroobants said.

“You aren’t always going to be able to keep 100 per cent of your playing list together. But Rochester has a little habit of being able to get players back to the club which is a real credit to everyone here.

“We’re hoping to be competing with the very best teams in the competition.”

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