Cooper Hamilton signs with Rochester in Goulburn Valley league

A social media sensation who labelled himself a “full-time media guinea pig” during his AFL career, will play country footy next year. Here is what we know.

Cooper Hamilton playing for the Giants. He’s joined Rochester for next year. Picture: Michael Klein

New Rochester recruit Cooper Hamilton is set to have an impact on and off the field at the club if Tigers president Justin Cleary has his way.

The former GWS player, who played eight games, and is famous for his social media videos with the club, has signed for the Tigers next year.

During a video released by the Giants earlier this year referred to himself as a “part-time footballer, full-time media guinea pig”.

He’ll play for the team when he isn’t playing for Carlton’s VFL side.

Hamilton joins the Tigers through his brothers who are currently at the club.

There’s a possibility he could play a match or two with Wil and Hugh.

It’s what made the decision to move a simple one in the end for the 21-year-old.

“Cooper has had a connection with us, as all the Hamilton’s have over the journey,” Cleary said.

“He’s still looking for an opportunity in football and he’s listed at Carlton’s VFL but he’s happy to name us as his home club this year.

“We hope he goes well but not that well and we see him at Rochester.”

Cleary said his social media talents will also be handy for the Tigers.

Cooper Hamilton has signed for Rochester for next season. Picture: Rochester Football Netball Club.

Hamilton’s videos for the Giants have attracted plenty of attention.

Cleary hopes there’s a few more the Tigers can use in 2025.

“I might lean on him a little bit (with it),” he said.

“He does an excellent job on his social media platforms and it’s an area all clubs are looking to promote and get a leg up with.

“I’m sure there will be an opportunity for Cooper to lend his talents to our club and give us a good social presence.”

Hamilton is one of a couple of signings Rochester has made as it looks to take the next step to premiership glory.

The Tigers made the preliminary final, falling one game short of the grand final.

Cleary said Hamilton and internal growth from the club would help the team rise again.

“I think it’s going to be growth within the club, and getting games into those young boys who we saw play last year,” he said.

“There’s another good crop of top age under-18s coming through and there’s a great group who I expect to see playing senior footy this year.

“It’s also consolidating what we’ve got.”