NFNL: Bundoora signs Peter McEvoy, Joe Palazzolo and Lachlan East

Bundoora has received a huge boost with a triple signing headlined by a former VFL captain although key figures are set to depart.

Peter McEvoy of Coburg attempts to break a tackle during the VFL footy: Coburg v Footscray played at Whitten Oval on Saturday 24th August, 2019.

Bundoora isn’t going about its plans for grand final redemption quietly.

The Bulls have landed one of the biggest coups of the Northern League off-season so far with former Coburg VFL captain Peter McEvoy set to join the club full-time in 2023.

McEvoy’s signature comes among a flurry of signings at the Bullring which also includes the return of three-time premiership player Joe Palazzolo while Lachlan East has crossed from Hurstbridge.

McEvoy’s VFL resume includes 121 goals, 90 games and being named captain of the VFL Team of the Year in 2021.

Bundoora coach Michael Ryan is excited by what McEvoy is set to add to the playing group.

“He’s been aligned to the club since 2019 but his commitments with Coburg have meant he hasn’t been available as much as we would have liked,” Ryan said.

“When he made the decision to step away from state league footy I reached out and congratulated him on a fantastic career. I offered him the chance to sit down and chat and it all happened from there.

“I’ve got a pretty good relationship with Pete, he’s a ripping fella.

“His work ethic and ability are two of his standout abilities. We’re super fortunate to have him and his family at the club next season.”

Peter McEvoy. Photo: AFL Photos via Getty Images

Palazzolo is set to add a hard edge to the Bulls’ midfield next season as he prepares to return after time in the Essendon District league with East Keilor.

Meanwhile, East will only further strengthen Bundoora’s defence.

“Joey will add some real hardness around the contest for us,” Ryan said.

“His got a fair few close mates at the club and he wanted to come back and finish his career at Bundoora. Lachie is one of the premier defenders in the competition and is widely respected.

“He’s a tough competitor who can drop off and read the play really well.”

Joe Palazzolo has returned to Bundoora.

Bundoora’s three new arrivals will play a key role in helping to regenerate the Bulls’ with several players set to move on.

Jai Burns and Kain Proctor have found new homes while Scott Dowell has retired.

“Every year, four or five usually move on,” Ryan said.

“It’s a great opportunity for guys at the club to take the spots up for grabs. I think there’s still a great deal of improvement left in some of the young guys we have.

“Players including Jackson Davies, John Jorgensen and Tristan Brown still have their best footy ahead of them and we’re looking forward to watching them develop going forward.

“We want to attack 2023 with a full head of steam.”