EFL: Park Orchards premiership coach Jarrod Bayliss joins Vermont in the Eastern Football League
Vermont has added further firepower to its playing stocks for 2019 with Myrtleford star Christian Burgess and former Park Orchards coach Jarrod Bayliss signing with the Eagles.
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Vermont has added further firepower to its playing stocks for 2019 with Myrtleford star Christian Burgess and Park Orchards premiership coach Jarrod Bayliss signing with the Eagles.
Vermont announced over the weekend the dynamic pair had put pen to paper with the reigning premiers, joining the returning duo of Robbie Ross and Ryan Mullett on the list of recruits.
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Burgess finished third in the Ovens & Murray best and fairest in 2016 and is considered one of the league’s premier onballers.
The 24-year-old also played three VFL games for Coburg in 2017.
Vermont coach Harmit Singh said Burgess would fill a vital midfield role for the Eagles.
“From a list management perspective he really does fill some needs that will complement our playing group,” Singh said.
“A lot of our players are aware of him and everyone in the industry has said what a fantastic young player he is, as well as being a person of outstanding character.
“He’s a dynamic player, can play that mid-forward role for us and he’s got the ability to hit the scoreboard.
“He’s able to get out of traffic, has got a nice step on him and his ability to tackle and work hard offensively and defensively out of stoppage are excellent”
Park Orchards announced in September that former Carlton forward Dennis Armfield had been appointed its new coach after Bayliss stepped down from the position.
Bayliss had indicated he would line up for the Sharks in 2019.
However, Singh said Bayliss had a desire to test himself in the top-flight.
“I think he had a bit of a think and I guess he had to do what he felt was best for him and what he wanted to do with his footy,” he said.
“Jarrod contacted me and was keen to have a crack. I believe Park Orchards was understanding of Jarrod’s wish to pursue the opportunity to play Premier division football.”
Shane Davidson (The Basin) and Ryan Phillips (Upper Ferntree Gully) have departed Terrara Rd after being squeezed out of Vermont’s senior side this year.
But junior products Pat Wallis, Hamish McGowan, James Krikas and Jack O’Keefe have been earmarked for more senior football next year.
“I just think those guys are ready to step up and play consistent senior football next year,” Singh said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing their growth next year and they have brought great energy to our football club.”
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