NFNL: Montmorency sign former AFL ruckman Jake Spencer

Montmorency can now lay claim to having the best ruck duo in local footy after signing an ex-AFL big man. Here’s how it happened.

Jake Spencer with Montmorency president Greg Bowman. Photo: Facebook.

Montmorency could now argue it has the best ruck duo in local footy.

Not just in Melbourne, but across the state.

The Northern league powerhouse has unveiled former AFL big man Jake Spencer as its newest recruit for the 2023 season.

Spencer crosses from Doncaster — who announced Robbie Gray as its headline signing on Monday — and is set to form an exciting partnership with Liam Wale-Buxton who impressed in his first season at the Magpies.

Montmorency president Greg Bowman revealed it was second time lucky for his club when it came to signing Spencer.

“We actually spoke to Jake before we went to Doncaster,” he said.

“Back then, we were very impressed with how he presented himself, he’s a really quality person. When it comes to bringing new people into our club, we’re always looking at their qualities as a person.

“We’re looking forward to seeing Jake and Liam play together, it’s going to be exciting for us. At the end of the season, we sat down and reviewed where we thought we could improve.

“We believe the recruits we’ve got so far help address those deficiencies.”

Jake Spencer with Montmorency president Greg Bowman. Photo: Facebook.

Spencer’s arrival comes just days after the Magpies revealed their newest recruits for next season.

Ben Paterson and Corey Sleep have made the decision to step up from Division 2 after time with Lower Plenty.

Paterson is a third generation member of his family connected to the club while Sleep has spent time with Williamstown in the VFL.

“Those boys should be commended for sticking their necks out and wanting to embrace the challenge,” Bowman said.

“I think it’s good for local footy when young guys want to test themselves at the highest level they can.”

Montmorency held a meet and greet with its new senior coach Jono Manzoney on Monday night with the former assistant making a strong impression according to Bowman.

“The night was very well attended,” he said.

“Jono gave a terrific presentation, you could have heard a pin drop when he was speaking, the room was so engaged.

“We think we’re in a really good position heading into next year. Our under 19s won the premiership, our reserves and seniors both lost in the preliminary final.

“We’re capable of going one step better.”