MPFNL: Tyabb signs 203cm ex-AFL Tiger Andrew Browne

A 203cm former Richmond ruckman and Essendon District league medallist has signed at Tyabb in the Mornington Peninsula league. Here’s how the Yabbies got their man.

Simon McEvoy

2 min read

October 28, 2024 - 10:27AM

News Sport Network

Andrew Browne of Keilor (left) contests ruck against Jack Thorogood of Glenroy. Picture: Hamish Blair

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Tyabb has netted a big one.

The Yabbies have signed former Richmond ruckman Andrew Browne as a playing assistant coach.

The 34-year-old — who stands 203cm — is one of the most decorated players in Essendon District Football League history through his feats at Mick McGuane’s Keilor.

A league medallist and grand final best-on-ground, Browne was the leading big man in Premier Division of the EDFL.

For the past two seasons, he’s played country footy — at Tatyoon (premiership) in 2023 and this year at Donald in the North Central league.

“He’s hugely respected as a person and footballer,” McGuane said of Browne in 2020.

“He only has eyes for the footy and he plays the game in the right manner.”

Andrew Browne of Keilor flies for a mark. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Tyabb coach Matt Haverfield said Browne’s arrival was huge for the Yabbies, who finished eighth (6-12) in Division 2 of the MPFNL this year.

“We know what we needed and we got it,” Haverfield said.

“He will make everyone around him improve.”

Browne is good mates with Tyabb’s full forward Matt Clark; the pair played together at Keilor.

“Players are your best recruiters,” Haverfield said of the Browne-Clark connection.

“Having Browney will release players such as Will Hose and James Hammond, they won’t have to shoulder the work load of the ruck and it gives our mids the best opportunity to get their hands on it first.

“Hopefully a couple more recruits to follow.”

Andrew Browne handballs for Richmond while being tackled by Sydney’s Adam Goodes.

Browne played 12 games for Richmond between 2009-12.

He had two stints at Keilor, winning two club best and fairests and making the EDFL team of the year on four occasions.

Browne’s footy journey includes a stint as playing coach at his junior club Mansfield in the Goulburn Valley league.

He was best-on-ground in Tatyoon’s grand final victory in the Mininera and District league in 2023.

Browne has been midfield coach for Richmond in the AFLW in the past few seasons.

“His knowledge and experience will add massively to our midfield group, with him having experience as a senior coach and midfield coach for Richmond AFLW,’’ Haverfield said.