MPFNL: Tyabb signs former Richmond player Dave Gourdis

Tyabb’s signing spree has continued, with the Yabbies securing a former Richmond player who played alongside three Brownlow medallists.

Richmond's David Gourdis spoils Eddie Betts of Carlton, during their round 20 match of the AFL season played at the MCG in 2010. (AAP Image/ Joe Castro)

He played alongside Brownlow medallists Ben Cousins, Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin.

Now Dave Gourdis has joined the Yabbie Pond, signing at Tyabb for season 2025.

The 35-year-old played four games for Richmond after the Tigers selected him with their number 1 pick in the 2007 pre-season draft.

He spent four years in the AFL system before playing in two premierships at Keilor in 2017 and 2019.

Gourdis has played at Lake Boga in the Central Murray league for the past two seasons.

He joins his former Keilor teammates Andrew Browne and Matt Clarke at Tyabb.

Browne signed with the Yabbies a fortnight ago.

Dave Gourdis playing for Keilor. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

Lake Boga’s Dave Gourdis is surrounded by Balranald Roos’ Toby Lay and Jaxon Neagle in 2023. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

Tyabb coach Matt Haverfield said Gourdis’ versatility made him “a great addition for us”.

“Dave is a strong, extremely versatile left footer who can play multiple positions,’’ he said.

“Whether it be forward, ruck or defence he causes a lot of headaches for opposition.

“He is exactly what we needed at Tyabb, his ability to play anywhere on the ground is a great strength for us and gives us flexibility.

“He’s the ultimate utility, he will work with Browney as the back up ruck and pinch hit forward which will complement our ruck stocks and cause headaches for opposition defenders.

“He’s excited about the direction of the club and playing with mates Andrew Browne and Matt Clark. As I said players are your best recruiters.’’

It’s believed Tyabb will announce another recruit shortly.

In other Tyabb news, Mark Brady and Matt Dimkos have been appointed assistant coaches for season 2025 while Dave Walker will coach the club’s Under 19s.

The Yabbies are aiming to play finals in 2025 after finishing eighth (6-12) in Division 2 of the MPFNL this year.