Country footy: GVL club Shepparton Swans sign three ex-AFL players

A country footy club has completed a stunning recruiting haul after unveiling three former AFL players for the 2023 season.

Nathan Hrovat. Pic: Michael Klein

Talk about a statement of intent.

Goulburn Valley League club Shepparton Swans has pulled off the recruiting haul of the off-season so far with the triple signing of three former AFL players.

Jamie MacMillan, Nathan Hrovat and Sam Wright have all been unveiled as the club’s first recruits of 2023.

They’re set to play under new coach Jedd Wright, who is the brother of Sam.

Between them they have over 360 games of experience at the top level.

“I knew taking over the current list had huge upside and by adding three guys with this level of experience we can fast track the development for some of the younger guys,” he said.

“We didn’t want to go out there and add 10 and upset the balance. Having Sam there was the obvious connection and I’ve known Jamie for a few years now.

“Once we all sat down and went out for lunch it all happened from there.

“We’re really excited to have these guys on board and look forward to seeing what they can offer at this level.”

Jamie McMillan. Photo: David Clark.

The talent coming through the ranks at the Swans is clear.

The under 18s side was narrowly defeated in the grand final this year while the under 16s won the premiership.

“There’s four or five players in that under 18s team who could step straight into the senior side and look comfortable at Goulburn Valley (league) level,” Wright said.

“It’s one of the most exciting things about the club at the moment, the talent coming through. The senior side might have only won five games last season but there is plenty for us to continue building on.”

Wright is set to take over at the Swans after previously coaching Katamatite in the Picola and District Football League.

Despite the step up in class, he’s prepared for the move.

“It’s a very even competition,” he said.

“The good thing about the GVL is that if you’re off your game the slightest you can be beaten by anyone. I think there’s a good opportunity for us as a club to close the gap on the top teams.

“If we put our best foot forward there’s no reason we can’t give finals footy a shake.”

Meanwhile, the Swans’ rivals, Euroa, have confirmed their own big signing in recent days.

The Magpies confirmed Will Hayes would return to the club full-time next year after he was recently delisted by Carlton.