Who are the Northern Football Netball League best off-season recruiters?

Nearly 130 players have moved clubs in the NFNL. So which clubs should be giving its recruiters a Christmas bonus? We name the best off-season clubs.

The best recruits of the Northern league off-season have been named.

Nearly 130 players have moved clubs in the NFNL. So which clubs should be giving its recruiters a Christmas bonus? We name the best off-season clubs.

6. THOMASTOWN

Recruits: James Lucente, Julian Janev, Kyle Green, Charlie Khoury, Nick Jolly, Anthony O'Sullivan

After missing finals the Bears have restocked with the reigning NFNL Division 2 leading goalkicker James Lucente and his Watsonia running mates Julian Janev - a former Northern Knights talent in his own right - and Charlie Khoury. Thommo further strengthened it attack with midfield-forward gun Kyle Green from Bundoora, who will also bring some much-needed Division 1 experience and leadership to Main Street. Anthony O'Sullivan could be one of the shrewdist pick-ups after a couple of years out of the game. Injuries curtailed him but he's still only 20 and represented Northern Knights.

5. SOUTH MORANG

Recruits: Tyrone Leonardis, Kobe van Zwienen, Teague van Zwienen, Kyle Wheatley, James Mellerick

Buoyed by its march to a NFNL Division 2 semi-final in its first season after winning promotion, South Morang went shopping this off-season. The Lions strong recruiting class is headlined by reigning Division 2 Coaches' MVP Tyrone Leonardis. The former Sydney-listed midfielder-defender will significantly boost the club's young onball brigade. The addition of Kobe van Zwienen from Watsonia will further strengthen the midfield with his run and carry, while brother Teague is a very good defender and won the Saints best-and-fairest in 2022 before injury struck this season. Kyle Wheatley was the Division 2 leading goalkicker in 2022 but spent this year playing reserves at Bundoora. Points and Gary Moorcroft could be barriers to him returning to regular senior football.

4. EPPING

Recruits: James Tadd, Reece Field, Adrian Alfonsi, Jaedyn Kearney, Corey Middleton, Adrian Cirianni, Dallyce Taylor, Ostinn Bellingham, Marc Tartaglia

The Pingers aren't taking relegation lightly and have recruited smartly knowing the drop does not guarantee instant success. Two-time West Preston-Lakeside premiership player James Tadd, Jaedyn Kearney, Corey Middleton, Adrian Cirianni and Dallyce Taylor all return to Epping Reserve and should settle in quickly. Reece Field and Adrian Alfonsi loom as twin towers in attack. Field kicking 75 goals in 19 games for Albanvale in the WRFL last season, while Alfonsi booted 28 in 13. Ostinn Bellingham was Field's teammate as the Cobras reached the grand final, while Marc Tartaglia arrives from EDFL powerhouse Keilor, bringing plenty of elite knowledge doubling as the club's S&C coach.

3. OLD ELTHAM COLLEGIANS

Recruits: Brent Macaffer, Braydn Taglieri, Kieran Malone, Beaudie Maroney, Sean Leerson, Ben Taylor, Bryce Fleming, Nick Osborne

After back-to-back NFNL Division 3 preliminary finals, the Turtles are coming for the premiership in 2024. Brent Macaffer's arrival is one of the biggest, if not the best, of the off-season. The Collingwood premiership player was dominant for Tooradin-Dalmore in the West Gippsland league for the past two seasons. Kieran Malone is a further boost to the midfield and forward line after a few seasons away, winning two best-and-fairests at KDFNL club Rushworth and a year at Warrandyte. Beaudie Maroney is one of the unsung recruits of the summer, stepping back to Division 3 after playing every game for West Preston-Lakeside in the top flight this year. After also added plenty of leadership and experience with Braydn Taglieri.

2. FITZROY STARS

Recruits: Neville Jetta, Kain Proctor, Patrick Farrant, Alex Williamson, Desmond Tipuamantumirri, Ralph Bamblett, Jacob Bamblett

While Neville Jetta may not play many games due to his VFL and coaching commitments, just having him around the club will be a boost. The Stars found out relegation doesn't lead to automatic success this year, finishing seventh, and have reacted accordingly. Kain Proctor was one of Bundoora's prime-movers in NFNL Division 1 this year, Patrick Farrant is coming off a 100-goal season in Western Australia, while Alex Williamson and Desmond Tipuamantumirri are both quality additions that will add plenty of firepower to the Stars' attack. While the club still lacks height, on paper it certainly has the talent to contend for a premiership. 

1. BANYULE

Recruits: Sam McLarty, Noah Wheeler, Tim Martin, Seb Francis-Perkins, Lewin Davis, Oscar WhiteSam McLarty - a 195cm, ex-Collingwood AFL-listed defender with plenty of VFL experience. Noah Wheeler - the reigning Bendigo league Michelsen Medallist and Team of the Year midfield. Tim Martin - the Bears' 2022 NFNL Division 2 premiership hero and grand final medallist, returning from a year at Woodend-Hesket where he finished third in the league best-and-fairest, earning Team of the Year honours and played in a grand final. Lewin Davis - Bendigo league Team of the Year member who kicked 35 goals. Seb Francis-Perkins - NFNL Division 3 Team of the Year and sixth in the Coaches' MVP. Oscar White - Northern Knights and Northern Blues VFL experience. While Wheeler will have a delayed start to the season due to a knee injury, this is collectively a stunning off-season haul for Banyule, while more than held its own in Division 1 this year after promotion. Can the Bears now push on and contend for finals?

Honourable mentions: Eltham (Liam McMahon, Jaden Collins, James Marchbank), Diamond Creek (Kyle Kankaanpaa, Mitch Dale, Ben Major), Mernda (Brent Marshall, Aydin Kesici), Old Paradians (Sam Gilmore), Heidelberg West (Michael Italia, James Condello, Liam Wanders, Jordan Vellios, Jacob Smith)

EVERY CLUB'S RECRUITING NEWS OF THE OFF-SEASON

This silly season is approaching the festive season.

There has been a litany of recruiting moves across the Northern Football Netball League.

Ex-AFL guns, league best-and-fairest winners, club champions and greats.

There’s also been some quiet recruiting done that could prove shrewd business next season.

Check out all the confirmed recruits below.

DIVISION 1

BANYULE

Sam McLarty: the former Collingwood-listed defender commits to the Bears, moving down the road after signing with NFNL Division 1 rival Heidelberg this year but not playing a game. The 195cm key position player underwent shoulder surgery after suffering the injury playing for Coburg in the VFL. Will be a handful at either end of the ground in 2024.

Noah Wheeler: A significant recruiting coup for the Bears, landing the reigning Bendigo league Michelsen Medallist and Team of the Year gun. Wheeler arrives after a superb season for Eaglehawk and will add further firepower to the Banyule engineroom and provide plenty of leadership.

Lewin Davis: Joins his Eaglehawk teammate Wheeler in travelling down to Melbourne. Davis also earned Team of the Year honours this season after kicking 35 goals. Will give opposition backlines plenty of headaches with his speed and experience.

Tim Martin: A contender for recruit of the off-season so far. The Bears welcome back star ruckman Martin after one season away with Woodend-Hesket in the Riddell District league. Martin helped the Hawks reach the RDFNL grand final for the first time since 2007 and finished third in the Bowen Medal. A Banyule premiership player in 2022.

Seb Francis-Perkins: The NFNL Division 3 Team of the Year young gun steps up to Division 1 footy after two impressive seasons with Old Eltham Collegians. Francis-Perkins also placed sixth in the competition’s Coaches’ MVP and 12th in the league best-and-fairest this season.

Oscar White: The young gun arrives at Beverley Road from Bendigo league outfit South Bendigo. No stranger to the area, White is a former Northern Knights NAB League and Northern Blues VFL player before spending the last three seasons with the Bloods.

BUNDOORA

Sam Philp: The former Carlton first-round draft pick has landed at Bundoora, alongside old Northern Knights teammates Jackson Davies, Ryan Sturgess and Jackson Bowne. Philp has signed with VFL club Port Melbourne and is expected to be a key member of the Borough’s line-up, which will limit his availability at the Bulls, but it remains a handy addition for new coach Heath Scotland.

Michael Fitz-Gerald: A long time defender for Montmorency, Fitz-Gerald brings his talents to Yulong Reserve to strengthen the Bulls’ backline. Will form a strong partnership with Isaac McMillan when he returns from injury.

ELTHAM

Alex Rigney: Made his senior debut for Bundoora in 2021 before crossing to Greensborough, where he played the season in the under-19s this year. Has done pre-seasons with Carlton and North Melbourne previously and will look to develop his game further with regular senior opportunties at Eltham.

James Marchbank: Returns to his junior club after a season off. Marchbank was a mainstay of Diamond Creek’s defence for several seasons before taking time off and will add considerably to the Panthers’ key position stocks.

Jaden Collins: Returns to Eltham after a couple of seasons with Montmorency and a season (2022) on the Northern Bullants’ VFL list. Played six games this season, including the Magpies two finals. Will be a key addition to the Panthers’ backline as they look to cement themselves in the top-flight.

Liam McMahon: Also returns to Eltham from Montmorency but is expected to play the majority of 2024 in the VFL after a strong season with Carlton this year. The former Collingwood second round AFL Draft pick played 17 VFL games and kicking 18 goals for the Blues as well as eight goals in five appearances for the Magpies.

GREENSBOROUGH

Tom O’Sullivan: The North Melbourne VFL-listed young gun arrives from Goulburn Valley power Seymour, where he was named the GVFL Rising Star this year. Played four games for the Kangaroos this season and made 16 appearances at local level. Previously a Calder Cannons graduate and two-time Assumption College premiership winner.

HURSTBRIDGE

Sean McLaren: Comes to Ben Frilay Oval with an impressive resume - Sandringham Dragons, AIS Academy, rookie listed by Sydney, NEAFL and then VFL at Sandringham. Took a year off footy in 2023 but previously played for Southern powerhouse Cheltenham and EDFL club Essendon Doutta Stars. An imposing prospect at 200cm who can hold down a key defender role or shift into the ruck.

Cam Wild: The third Wild brother joins Jake and Mitch at Ben Frilay Reserve, crossing from EDFL club East Keilor. Cam enjoyed an impressive VFL campaign with Northern Bullants, playing nine games and averaging 23 disposals. Expected to remain a Bullants regular in 2024 but will be a more than handy addition for the Bridges when available.

MACLEOD

Mackenzie Hogg: A significant coup for Macleod, securing the services of the former Northern Knights forward and one-time Carlton father-son prospect. Hogg was a mainstay in Heidelberg’s senior line-up for much of 2023, playing eight games and kicking 11 goals. However, he was forced back to reserve grade at the business end of the season and was a part of the Tigers reserves premiership – winning the grand final medal in the process.

Darcy Hogg: Joins his brother Mackenzie at DeWinton Park, jumping across from Old Carey in the VAFA. The midfield-forward remains listed at Carlton having come through the Blues’ father-son academy and Northern Knights.

Reece Jones: The rangy defender steps up to NFNL Division 1 from Division 2 finalist South Morang. Jones proved himself one of the most reliable defenders in Division 3 and 2 with the Lions and is more than capable on the rebound. Played 19 games in 2022, including South’s premiership win, but was restricted to just seven games this season.

Sam Richards: Made 11 appearances, all in the reserves, for VAFA Premier C club Old Carey this season after five senior and 10 reserve grade matches in 2022. Will add critical midfield depth for the Kangas.

Max Razums: Made two senior appearances for Old Carey in VAFA Premier C this season but spent most of the season in the reserves, kicking 12 goals in 12 games. The 6’3 utility will be a handy addition.

Cooper Clark: The former Heidelberg under-19s returns to the NFNL after a season with Wodonga Raiders in the Ovens and Murray league. Clark played 16 games, all in reserve grade, in 2023. Trained with the Kangas between trips to Wodonga last season so is already familiar to his new teammates.

Max Childs: The former Richmond NGA prospect arrives at DeWinton Park from Murray league club Echuca. Childs played 11 senior games, kicked four goals and earned a mention in the best four times this season. A pacey and clean-skilled midfield-forward.

Jake Hodgkin: Came through the ranks at Ovens and Murray club Wodonga Raiders but played for Tallangatta District outfit Mitta United this season, featuring in all 18 games and kicking 16 goals. Can play at either end of the ground and even through the middle, which will make him a valuable addition to Craig Hayes’ whiteboard.

MONTMORENCY

Callum Brown: Won’t see much time in the black and white due to his VFL commitments at Box Hill but a significant signing nonetheless. Changes his aligned club from Marcellin in the VAFA. Brown is coming off a superb season with the Hawks, earning Team of the Year honours after averaging 29 disposals. The former Collingwood father-son draftee would be a huge boost if he’s available at any stage in 2024.

Harvey Hooper: The Port Melbourne captain and reigning best-and-fairest winner switches local clubs from Old Scotch. The Magpies expect to see him sparsely in 2024 but just having him at the club to pass on his experience and leadership to the young players will be a benefit.

Nash Holmes: A huge addition to the Magpies and Northern league with Holmes committing full-time at Montmorency Park. He has been a VFL mainstay for several years, previously with Essendon and North Melbourne, and most recently with Port Melbourne. The big bodied midfielder played 14 matches for the Borough this season and averaged 22 disposals. Was aligned to Deer Park last season and won the grand final medal in the Lions’ EDFL Division 1 premiership.

NORTH HEIDELBERG

Tom Rivis: Recruited by Bulldogs breakout star Josh Hamilton, who he played with at Xavier College. Rivis is looking to step up to senior football after spending 2023 with Kew Bears in the YJFL. North Heidelberg has been impressed with his running capacity and skills.

Kyle Maynard: Arrives after 51 games and 45 goals for Avenel in the Kyabram District league, captaining the club for the past four years. The midfielder follows coach Kasey Duncan, who has signed on as the Bulldogs’ senior assistant. Maynard also has experience in the Ovens and Murray league with Wodonga Raiders and Lavington.

Tom Wallis: The son of a gun arrives at Shelley Reserve from EDFL club Essendon Doutta Stars. The son of Essendon premiership player Dean, Wallis was drafted by Essendon with pick No.54 in the 2015 rookie draft and spent a year on the Bombers AFL list. Spent a couple of years with East Perth in the WAFL as well. Made 13 appearances for the Stars this year, earning a mention in the best nine times.

Adam & Ben Giobbi: The brothers have signed on from Goulburn Valley club Euroa. Ben is a former Port Melbourne and Casey VFL and Perth WAFL player. A tough, inside midfielder who will complement Jesse Tardio and Liam Hunt nicely. Adam is a key position player adept at either end, who has spent time at Frankston VFL.

DIVISION 2

DIAMOND CREEK

Brodie Driscoll: The youngster arrives from fellow NFNL Division 2 club Whittlesea, where he made his senior debut this season. He also featured 10 times in the reserves.

Mitch Dale: Took a year away from the game in 2023 after playing all 16 NFNL Division 1 matches for Hurstbridge in 2022. Will return to the field with the Creekers, in a big boost to the club’s hopes of going one better in 2024. Dale will add significantly to Diamond Creek’s midfield brigade or all some polish off half-back

Kyle Kankaanpaa: The 21-year-old young gun was a regular at Montmorency this season but will call Coventry Oval home in 2024. Kankaanpaa played 17 senior games for the Magpies, including both finals. It’s a return of sorts with Kankaanpaa’s old man Mark a two-time Creekers premiership player.

Ben Major: After two years in Queensland with Broadbeach, Major returns to his junior club. The 21-year-old is a significant boost for the Creekers as they look to go one step further in 2024. The 192cm utility was highly regarded during his time at Coates League club Northern Knights but was hampered by injury.

LAURIMAR

Matt Ryan: Returns to his junior club from Whittlesea, where he made his senior debut in 2022. A talented junior, listed by Northern Knights, but was sidelined for much of 2023 due to injury. Will add to Laurimar’s already impressive young list and add another layer to the Power’s midfield.

LOWER PLENTY

Mitchell Clamp: After a year away, the reliable defender returns to Montmorency Park. Brought up his 100th game for the Bears in 2021 and will be looking to add to his tally in 2024. A major addition to Lower’s defence after a difficult season in 2023.

Lewis Tsourou: Joins his Research Juniors premiership teammate Nick Uzelac at Montmorency Park after four years at VAFA outfit Preston Bullants. A strongly built young player that the Bears hope can make an impact in various positions.

Nick Uzelac: The young forward walks up the hill from Montmorency to join Lower. Played five senior games for the Magpies this season, kicking four goals, after 17 games and 25 goals in 2022. A much-needed addition to the Bears’ attack.

NORTHCOTE PARK

Terence De Santis: Jumps across from Preston Bullants, where he played nine senior games in 2022 before suffering a season-ending injury and missing 2023. Will slot into the Cougars backline and look to use his bounce of half-back to set up plenty of attack.

Ethan Miller-Gaff: A strong endurance athlete who will enjoy the wide open spaces of Bill Lawry Oval. Played senior and reserve grade football at Montmorency and was a NFNL representative at underage level. Could be a recruiting gem in the rough.

Caillin Kett: Has been listed at North Heidelberg since 2020 but doesn’t appear to have made an appearance at either senior or reserve grade level. He’ll look to restart his career at Bill Lawry Oval. A key position player who can play a role at either end of the ground.

PANTON HILL

Jason Pannam: Will look to add to the Redback’s attack in 2024 having been part of some successful clubs in recent years. Played 12 reserve grade matches and kicked 23 goals at Heidelberg this year but missing out on the premiership. Also made 12 appearances and kicked 19 goals for Bundoora reserves in 2021.

Guilan Fable: A players that’s lost just one game in two years. A mainstay in Heidelberg’s reserve grade premiership this season, playing 19 of 20 games. Also played all 20 in 2022 as the Tigers won all but one game, which was unfortunately the grand final. Will add much-needed experience and leadership to the Redbacks.

SOUTH MORANG

Kobe & Teague van Zwienen: the Lions strong off-season continues with the van Zwienen brothers crossing from divisional rival Watsonia. Kobe has back-to-back top-three club best-and-fairest finishes, earning a reputation as a damaging midfielder. Younger brother Teague won the Saints’ club champion in 2021 and is an athletic defender who can break the lines with his speed and skill.

Tyrone Leonardis: The former Sydney AFL-listed star and reigning NFNL Division 2 Coaches’ MVP will call South Morang home in 2024, jumping across from divisional rival Thomastown. Will add some class to the Lions midfield or off half-back with his ball use and decision-making.

Kyle Wheatley: Look out there’s a new spearhead in town. Wheatley returns to South Morang after what would have been a disappointing season individually at Bundoora. After a superb 2022 with Watsonia that saw him kick 43 goals and earn Team of the Year honours he crossed to Yulong Reserve but couldn’t crack it for a senior game. He’ll look to return to his goalkicking best with the Lions in 2024.

James Mellerick: Returns to Mill Park Lakes after a stint with Hurstbridge. The half-back/wingman last played for the Lions in 2018. He’ll add some critical depth to South Morang’s list as they look to further cement themselves in Division 2.

ST MARY’S

Curtis Howden-Crhak: The Burras lure a club junior back to Whatmough Park for 2024. Howden-Crhak is a proven Division 1 player having produced a breakout season in 2021, playing 12 matches and kicking 18 goals for North Heidelberg. However, he only made four and two appearances for the Bulldogs in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

Lincoln Zhang: Graduated from the Northern Knights and moved straight into senior football with West Preston-Lakeside, playing three games in 2021 and five more in 2023. Capable of playing at either end but is best suited behind the ball.

THOMASTOWN

Nick Jolly: A journeyman footballer who has relocated to Melbourne from Queensland. Jolly played eight senior games for Ballina in the AFL Queensland competition this season but boasts a decorated resume from his time in the Adelaide Football League. A three-time premiership player with Payneham Norwood Union.

Anthony O’Sullivan: Has spend almost two years out of the game due to a string of serious injuries but was a talented youngster. Won the NFNL Under-16s league best-and-fairest in 2018, edging Diamond Creek’s newest recruit Ben Major and played one game for Northern Knights in 2019. Still only 20 and at 187cm will be a presence for the Bears.

Kyle Green: A super get for the Bears. Green was a key player in Bundoora’s back-to-back NFNL Division 1 grand final appearances. He made 47 appearances for the Bulls and kicked 59 goals, including 36 in a standout 2022. Will be a strong presence through midfield and across the half-forward line for Thomastown in 2024.

James Lucente: The reigning NFNL Division 2 leading goalkicker is on the move in 2024. Lucente swaps Watsonia for Thomastown after a career-best season saw him kick 61 goals to top the competition, earn Team of the Year honours and a top-10 finish in the league best-and-fairest. The 22-year-old will be a big boost to the Bears’ attack.

Julian Janev: Switches division rivals, coming from Watsonia. The 20-year-old is still fresh out of the Northern Knights before establishing himself at the Saints, playing 11 games. His performances were eye-catching enough to earn nine league best-and-fairest votes, placing him 11th.

Charlie Khoury: The 21-year-old joins great mate Lucente in crossing from Watsonia to join Thomastown. The young forward booted 25 goals this season, forming a strong tag team with Lucente in attack. Played 17 games for the Saints this season after 17 and 14 goals in 2022.

WATSONIA

Cody Tulloch: lightly-built, athletic ruckman or forward. The 19-year-old comes to Binnak Park from Ovens and King club Bright, where he played four games in the reserves. No stranger to the Northern league though, having previously played for Whittlesea.

Ethan Lowe: The Saints reinforce their forward line with the Macleod key forward. Lowe made 11 senior appearances for the Kangas this season and booted 10 goals and another 33 in in just six reserve grade games, including a bag of 10 against Whittlesea. Another strong-bodied forward that will look to form a strong combination with the likes of Darcy Charles and Corey Potter.

Damon Braby: Crosses to the Saints looking for senior opportunity after being a part of Eltham’s reserve grade premiership this season. The 21-year-old was the only Panther to play all 20 games in the seconds. Will add some much-needed running power to the engineroom.

Baxter Evans: Returns after a year in Cambodia teaching. In 2022, the young tall made eight appearances for Heidelberg’s under-19s, including the grand final loss to Montmorency. Adds vital height to the Saints’ line-up and can be used in multiple positions.

Tim Todd: Played 17 games and kicked 14 goals for Heidelberg’s reserves this season but missed out on the finals and premiership after playing in the losing grand final last year. Will provide invaluable experience and leadership to a Watsonia team that has lost significant talent in the off-season.

Rayden Garrard: The talented big man hops across the road to Binnak Park from Greensborough. A Northern Knights graduate and NFNL Division 1 Under-19s league best-and-fairest before cementing himself as a regular senior player at the Borough. Played 17 games and kicked 21 goals in the top flight this season. Can play in the ruck or key forward and will be a key asset for the Saints.

WHITTLESEA

Lucas Hobbs: One of the most decorated players in DVFL/NFNL history. Hobbs returns to Whittlesea Showgrounds after eight years at Macleod. A two-time premiership player and two-time club best-and-fairest winner at Whittlesea. He also won a premiership, a Rosbrook Medal, three club best-and-fairests at the Kangas and is an earned Team of the Year honours six times across Division 1 and 2.

Matt Coen: The 2019 premiership defender returns to the Showgrounds after a couple of seasons up the hill at Kinglake. The ever reliable backman played 11 NFNL Division 3 games for the Lakers this season and was named in the best in five of them. A strong addition to the Eagles’ backline with experience and leadership.

Matt Langford: An Eagles junior returns home to hopefully help the club bounce straight back to Division 1 after being relegated this season. Returns to the club from Kinglake together with Coen after playing 12 games and kicking six goals in NFNL Division 3 in 2023. Will be a welcome addition as a forward-midfielder.

DIVISION 3

EPPING

Adrian Cirianni: The old Pinger returns after a season with Northcote Park in Division 2. Together with a few returning players, gives Epping an important boost in experience and class. Adds another string to the midfield bow for coach Brad Hollow.

Dallyce Taylor: The key forward is capable of winning games off his own boot and his return to a massive boost to Epping’s attack. Famously kicked eight goals to guide the Pingers to a big win over Panton Hill in 2021 in what would prove the last game of the season. Spent the 2023 season with Northcote Park, where he played 13 matches.

James Tadd: The gun midfielder returns to Epping Reserve after one season with Northcote Park. Tadd finished second in the Cougars best-and-fairest this year and has previously played in two Division 1 premierships with West Preston-Lakeside. A significant coup for the Pingers as they look to bounce back from relegation.

Marc Tartaglia: The Pingers new signing will double as the club’s strength and conditioning coach. Tartaglia arrives from Essendon District powerhouse Keilor where he played six games and kicked three goals in reserve grade this season. Would have undoubtedly learned plenty under Mick McGuane.

Reece Field: Arrives at Epping Reserve from Western Region Division 3 grand finalist Albanvale. The star forward booted an impressive 75 goals in 19 appearances this season, including five in the heartbreaking two-point loss to Suns. Finished fourth in the league goalkicking award. Will add some much-needed firepower to the Pingers’ attack in 2024.

Jaedyn Kearney: A favourite son returns to Epping Reserve. Has more than 300 games for the Blues, coming through the club’s junior ranks to the seniors. Spent the 2023 season with now divisional rival Old Eltham Collegians but returns to try and help the Pingers bounce back after relegation from Division 2.

Corey Middleton: Another Pinger returns to Epping Reserve after a couple of seasons away. Middleton was named in the best in Eltham’s reserve grade premiership this year and was at Craigieburn in 2022. Will be a strong addition to Epping’s midfield-forward rotation.

Ostinn Bellingham: A star player in Albanvale’s march to the Western Region Division 3 grand final this season. The midfield-forward played 19 games, kicked 17 goals and earned a mention in the best 11 times. A more than handy pick-up as Epping looks to get back to winning ways.

Adrian Alfonsi: The former Watsonia captain and Division 3 premiership player crosses to Epping Reserve. The star forward returned from a knee injury this season and made 13 appearances and kicked 28 goals, including a bag of six against his new club in Round 14. Will be a strong focal point in attack.

FITZROY STARS

Desmond Tipuamantumirri: Arrives from sister club Rumbalara in the Murray league, where he made 17 senior appearances this season and was named in the best in 13 of them. Also a regular for NTFL club Tiwi Bombers having played 11 games in the 2023 season.

Neville Jetta: The former Melbourne AFL star and now Collingwood VFL gun will align with the Stars at local level this season. Jetta played 19 VFL games this season and featured prominently in club best-and-fairest voting. He’ll remain a player and development coach at the Magpies and run out for the Stars when available. Nevertheless a quality addition if just for his leadership and experience around the club.

Kain Proctor: The son of a gun midfielder returns to Sir Doug Nicholls Oval after three seasons and back-to-back NFNL Division 1 grand finals at Bundoora. Proctor captained the Stars to a VASCAL George Atkinson Victorian Statewide Championship last month and could be leading them out when the 2024 Northern league season kicks off next year.

Patrick Farrant: There aren’t many 100-goal forwards in the Northern league and now Fitzroy Stars possesses one. Young Farrant booted 107 goals in 16 matches for Bridgetown in the Lower South West Football League in WA this season and has previous WAFL experience at Swan Districts. His old man, Paddy Senior was a premiership player at Fitzroy Stars and the club hopes his son can add to the family legacy.

Alex Williamson: Crosses from divisional rival Heidelberg West and brings an eye for goal with him. Williamson kicked 34 goals last season. Can also get up the ground and make an impact with his skills by foot.

Ralph & Jacob Bamblett: Ralph comes across from Bundoora, where he played five reserve grade games and 10 in the under-19s, where he kicked 12 goals. He’ll be joined by brother Jacob with the pair set to add a threat around goal for the Stars.

HEIDELBERG WEST

Michael Italia: West’s super impressive off-season continues with the signing of Banyule senior premiership player and 2023 club reserve grade best-and-fairest winner Michael Italia. Adds extensive high level experience and leadership to a club with high ambitions.

Aaron Scott: A famous name returns to Heidelberg Park with Scott, who’s father Brett and grandfather Kenny, signing on. Was listed at Diamond Creek this season but comes to the Hawks looking for senior football.

James Condello: A massive coup for West, securing a consistent Division 1 midfielder. Condello played 14 games and kicked five goals for Macleod this season, while he’s also played for Bundoora. James joins his brother Stefan at Heidelberg Park and will be a big addition to the club’s midfield.

Liam Wanders: Another coup for the club. Wanders was one of the best young players in Division 1, establishing himself in defence at Macleod. Played seven, nine and 11 games for the Kangas in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Will bolster the Hawks backline with his ability to play on small or tall forwards.

Dalton Doherty: Previously at Macleod, after a couple of seasons out of the game, Doherty returns with Heidelberg West. The Hawks hope he slots in off half-back and can provide some much-needed experience and leadership in the backline.

Jordan Vellios: Spent this season travelling overseas and will slot straight back into the senior team as a crafty forward. Produced an impressive campaign in 2022, kicking 34 goals in 12 matches and earning a mention in the best six times.

Mitch Thompson: Made 19 appearances, kicked nine goals and earned four mentions in the best in Banyule’s NFNL Division 1 Under-19s team this season. Was a part of the club’s under-19 premiership in 2022 too.

Jacob Smith: A young ruckman who will help pick up the slack in the wake of Lachie Evans’ departure. Crosses to West looking for senior opportunties after coming through at Division 1 club Macleod, playing four reserve grade games this season after three senior matches in 2022. Finished fourth in the Division 2 Under-19 league best-and-fairest in 2021.

IVANHOE

Ant Willison: The latest Hoers junior to join the senior club since its move to the Northern league. Willison is a best-and-fairest winner and premiership player in juniors and represented Northern Knights. Played seven senior games for Old Ivanhoe in 2022 but missed out on the club’s run to senior and reserve grade flags this year.

Will Drapac: A premiership player and best-and-fairest winner at Ivanhoe Juniors and a Northern Knights graduate. Drapac is a former captain of Banyule and made five senior appearances for Heidelberg in 2021. Will be a more than handy inclusion with his experience and leadership.

Jack Welham: A Premier C Team of the Year forward in 2019 playing for Old Ivanhoe when he kicked 35 majors, backing up a Division 2 Under-19s league best-and-fairest and 77 goals in 2018. Looms as a strong addition to the Hoers forward line with his marking ability to accuracy in front of goal.

Jamie Lay: A Hoers junior who returns for the club’s inaugural Northern league season. After a season out of the game, Lay crosses from VAFA Division 1 outfit Kew where he played three senior and 10 reserve grade games.

Kane Veliou: An Ivanhoe junior, Veliou is a strong acquisition from NFNL Division 1 powerhouse Heidelberg. An impressive 2023 campaign saw him finish second in the Tigers’ best-and-fairest and third in the league best-and-fairest voting. He’ll be a strong contributor in midfield from day one. The exact type of recruit the Hoers need as the cross to the Northern league.

Sam Aanensen: Last played in 2022 for Lancaster in the Kyabram District league, kicking five goals in eight senior matches. No stranger to the Northern league have previously played for Northcote Park in Division 1.

Jacob Martin: The young gun made five Coates League appearances for Calder Cannons in 2019 as well as five senior matches for EDFL power Aberfeldie before going bush. The big bodied midfielder played 14 games for Merrigum in the Kyabram District league in 2022.

KILMORE

Jake Hall: Played 15 senior games for Broadford in the Outer East league this season after seven senior appearances for Wallan in 2022. Brings considerable experience to Kilmore and will provide a handy foil for Bailey Taylor-Egan in the Blues’ attack.

Kye Maher: Returns to JJ Clancy Reserve after a few seasons away, testing himself in Division 1. Maher played 26 senior games for North Heidelberg in the past three seasons, including 10 in 2023. Made his senior debut for Kilmore as a 17-year-old in 2019 and will add some much-needed firepower to the midfield and forward line.

Ryan Bailey: Steps back from Division 1 club Macleod where he played 11 reserve grade games this season. Played five senior games in 2022, so looms as a key player for the Blues this season. Also a versatile player, which is invaluable in today’s game.

Mitch van de Duim: Returns to the Northern league where he last played 15 reserve grade games for Laurimar. In 2021, he returned to Kyabram District club Longwood and claimed the club’s best-and-fairest award. He’ll suit up for the Two Blues in 2024 and looms as a valuable addition to the engineroom with his attack on the ball.

Ben Barton: A strong pick-up for Kilmore. Barton, a club junior, comes with an excellent country resume having earned Team of the Year honours in the Heathcote District league in 2022 and 2023 and was crowned Colbinabbin’s club best-and-fairest winner this season. The defender will be one to watch in 2024.

Josh Coe: The young big man swaps Demons for Blues after playing five senior games for Mernda this season. The 6’5 ruckman is still only 22 and Kilmore hopes he can develop into one of the best in the competition.

Brian Lawrence: Captained Wallan’s under-19s to a preliminary final this season, while also making six senior appearances for the Magpies. Will provide some much-needed pace and line-breaking ability to the Two Blues’ line-up

Brad Deed: A member of Laurimar’s losing 2022 NFNL Division 3 grand final but missed out on the premiership this season. Comes with VFL experience at Northern Blues and now joins Kilmore looking to lift the Two Blues back into finals contention.

KINGLAKE

Elliot Kynaston: Spent 2023 with Kyabram District club Avenal, making five senior appearances and 12 more in the reserves. Kynaston returns to the NFNL after representing Epping in 2022 and Whittlesea in 2021.

LALOR

Seb Pretty: A part of Wallan’s under-19s this season, playing 10 games, including the Magpies’ preliminary final. A strong body and good size for a young player, he’s the type of recruit that the Bloods need to build around moving forward. Can play anywhere on the ground.

Nathan Stamkovski: Arrives from North Heidelberg, where he played 12 reserve grade matches this season. Adds experience and skill to a Bloods team in need of both. Will have his work cut out in defence in 2024.

Ethan Hope: Made his senior debut as a 17-year-old under Lance Whitnall at Craigieburn. Played 14 games and kicked five goals for EDFL Division 2 outfit Hadfield this season. Lalor hopes to utilise his run-and-carry and accurate kick across half-back and through the midfield.

Nick Caldone: Played under Lance Whitnall at Craigieburn before having time out of the game. Returned to the field with Maribyrnong Park this season, playing 12 games for the Lions’ Thirds. Will look to step back up to senior football at Sydney Crescent in 2024 and at age 24, still has plenty of development.

Sam Rexhepi: A massive recruiting coup for Lalor, regaining the services of the former club captain. Even in Lalor’s down years, Rexhepi was a goal machine, kicking 25 goals, winning the club best-and-fairest and making the Team of the Year in 2021 and 39 majors in 2019.

Hayden Hunt: Reigning North Heidelberg reserve grade best-and-fairest winner will be a key inclusion in the Bloods’ midfield.

Heath & Ashley Patton: Heath teams back up with his former Craigieburn coach Lance Whitnall, crossing from Maribyrnong Park (EDFL). The tall utility will be joined by his even taller brother Ashley who can fill a key position role at either end of the ground.

MERNDA

Brent Marshall: One of the biggest recruits of the off-season, simply for luring a Marshall out of Bundoora. ‘Nipper’ arrives at Waterview Reserve with a superb resume, including 221 matches for Bundoora, two NFNL Division 1 premierships – including one as captain – and Bulls captain for nine years. He’ll be midfield coach under Rob Fletcher and provide invaluable experience and leadership for the Demons.

Jake Bennett: A stalwart at Bundoora, featuring in all three grades during his time at Yulong Reserve. An under-19s captain, reserve grade captain, reserve grade club best-and-fairest and premiership winner. Will add more depth and experience to Mernda’s squad.

Aydin Kesici: Returns to Melbourne after spending the 2023 season with Tatura in the Goulburn Valley league. Previously played at Essendon Doutta Stars in the EDFL where he was captain as well as Craigieburn. An Essendon District representative.

OLD ELTHAM COLLEGIANS

Bradyn Taglieri: A member of Eltham’s NFNL Division 2 reserve grade premiership this season, while also making three appearances at senior level for the Panthers. The veteran midfielder and NFNL Division 1 Team of the Year player brings considerable experience from his time at Northern Blues VFL, Eltham and Balwyn.

Bryce Fleming: The key positions player arrives from Outer East club Broadford. Fleming made his senior debut at just 16 and can play a variety of roles, crucial in today’s game. Made 15 senior appearances for the Kangaroos this season and kicked nine goals.

Kieran Malone: The prodigal son returns. Malone starred in Old Eltham’s maiden NFNL season, winning the club best-and-fairest, earning top-five finishes in the league best-and-fairest and Coaches’ MVP and earning Team of the Year honours. Returns to the Turtles after winning two best-and-fairests at Rushworth in the Kyabram District and spent 2023 with Warrandyte in the Eastern league. Famously scored 285 SuperCoach points playing for Northern Knights.

Nicholas Osborne: Was a regular in Lower Plenty’s reserves this season, playing 15 games, and will add some depth to the Turtles squad.

Brent Macaffer: The biggest signing of the Northern league off-season? The Collingwood premiership player returns to the Northern league after two super seasons with Tooradin-Dalmore in the West Gippsland league. The star midfielder won a premiership and the league best-and-fairest in 2022 and was named in the Team of the Year in 2022 and 2023. Will dominate the midfield in Division 3.

Beaudie Maroney: The Turtles have a habit of luring talent out of higher levels and they’ve done so again with Maroney. Didn’t miss a game for West Preston-Lakeside in NFNL Division 1 this season and earned a mention in the best five times.

Sean Leerson: Big men are like gold in local footy and Old Eltham has secured a much-needed ruckman. Leerson has spent the last few seasons travelling to Mildura to play for Cardross. He made nine appearances in the Millewa league this season and featured in the Lions’ grand final team in 2022 too.

Ben Taylor: Speaking of tall timber. Big Ben stands at 208cm and has senior football experience across the Southern league and VAFA.

OLD PARADIANS

Kyle O’Sullivan: A long-time senior player at Eltham but played just the four reserve grade games for the Panthers this season and missed the senior-reserves premiership double. However, he’ll add vital experience and leadership to either the midfield or defence at Old Paradians as it makes the move to the NFNL.

Sam Gilmore: We named him the No.1 player in NFNL Division 1 this season, which gives you an idea of the magnitude of this signing. Gilmore will likely be the biggest recruit of the off-season. A two-time Heidelberg premiership captain, three-time premiership player, best-and-fairest winner and Team of the Year regular. An astounding get for the Raiders. Will take time out of the game to travel in 2024 but will be an invaluable addition when available.

Will Gilmore: The brother of Sam is a gun in his own right and returns to Garvey Oval after a couple of years out of the game. Will is an Old Paradians best-and-fairest and Team of the Year player previously and given his height and athleticism is sure to be a handful at either end of the ground in a key position.

Kyle O’Sullivan: A former vice-captain at Eltham, O’Sullivan made just four reserve grade appearances this season. However, his addition at Old Paradians will provide valuable experience and knowledge as the club embarks on its Northern league journey.

RESERVOIR

Jake Lynch: Will add to Reservoir’s hard-working defence and the club hopes can add some class off half-back with his run-and-carry.

Murphy Del Rosario: Comes to the Mustangs from WRFL Division 3 outfit Tarneit, where he played one reserve grade game this season

Chris Hill: Has been sidelined by a string of injuries and arrives at Reservoir as a playing coach, hoping to make an impact on and off the field.