NFL 2018: Greensborough signs star midfielder Ben Fennell
BEN Fennell will continue a family history dating back more than 100 years when he runs out for Greensborough next year.
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BEN Fennell will continue a family history dating back more than 100 years when he runs out for Greensborough next year.
The Essendon-VFL listed midfielder was announced as the Boro’s first signing of the Northern Football League off-season on Monday, after they tried unsuccessfully to recruit him from Montmorency last year.
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Fennell’s family is Greensborough royalty, with their association dating back to Reg McDowell’s playing career from 1912-1925.
Ben’s great grandfather Bill played for the club from 1922-1934, leading the Boro to premiership glory in 1931.
His mother Karen is the daughter of Don McDowell, who featured in four premierships and seven grand finals during a career which spanned more than a decade.
Ben, who previously played for Hurstbridge and Montmorency, will be the fourth generation of McDowells to represent Greensborough.
“His grandfather is very much a legend of the club,” co-coach Mick Harford said.
“The footy club is on McDowell St, so it’s a huge thing for his family. That was one of the real drivers for him.”
The Magpies chose held Fennell to the last season of a contract this year, but Harford said the midfielder “wants his grandfather to see him play for Greensborough”.
The 26-year-old’s 2018 campaign was cut short by a ruptured spleen he suffered while playing for Essendon, but the Boro are confident he will be “cherry ripe” for pre-season.
“Coming off a complete knee reconstruction the year before, he’s had basically two years where he didn’t play,” Harford said.
“He’s really confident his body is in its best shape and he looks fit and well and is really keen to get back and play some footy.”
Regarded as one of the premier on-ballers in Division 1, Fennell’s signing is a significant coup for Greensborough as it strives to stamp itself as a premiership contender again.
“We performed admirably but we know we have got to continue to bring in additional quality to match it with the best teams,” Harford said.
“We just need a couple of extras to add that real polish.”
The Boro finished fifth this year, bowing out in an elimination final against Bundoora.
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