OEFN: Gembrook Cockatoo signs former AFL player Marley Williams

Gembrook Cockatoo coach Michael Firrito hopes an ex-AFL recruit will “take a few under his wing’’ and show the way at the Brookers in 2025.

Marley Williams of the Kangaroos celebrates kicking a goal against the Brisbane Lions. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Gembrook Cockatoo coach Michael Firrito says new signing Marley Williams is exactly what the club needs.

The former Collingwood and North Melbourne 125-gamer is a local — he lives at Avonsleigh, close to the Brookers’ home ground.

“A really good addition for us,” Firrito said.

“He’s a 31 year old who played AFL football only three years ago so we’re really rapt.

“We’ve got a pretty young group so to bring in a mature body and a wise head and obviously an elite footballer and ball user…I think he’ll really complement what we’ve got really well.”

Williams played 68 games at the Magpies from 2012-16 and 57 with the Kangaroos from 2017–20.

Michael Firrito of the Kangaroos passes the ball over Marley Williams of the Magpies in a game at the MCG in 2015. (AAP Image/Joe Castro)

Firrito just missed him at North Melbourne — Williams joined the Kangas the season after “Spud’’ retired — although they did play against each other in the AFL.

Firrito said Williams would play “wherever he wants” at Gembrook Cockatoo next season, with his versatility to give the Brookers options.

“We probably see him more between the arcs, through the midfield or half forward or half back…wherever he wants to play,” Firrito said.

“Hopefully he can grab a few kids and take them under his wing.”

After being promoted to Premier Division this year, Gembrook Cockatoo finished in ninth spot with a 5-13 record.

Gembrook Cockatoo players in action this year.

Firrito said it was important for the Brookers to stay in the top flight division.

“It’s a tough competition,’’ he said.

“I think we improved greatly but we didn’t get the reward we were after. We’re still a side that is building.

“I guess it was disappointing in terms of wins and losses but hopefully our rewards are still to come.’’

Firrito said Gembrook Cockatoo was working on securing more recruits to join Williams.

“We feel we’ve got a good enough list but we feel we need to add a few key pieces which we are slowly doing,’’ he said.

Firrito played this season but hopes to hang up his boots and be a non-playing coach in 2025.

“It’s probably dependant on what we acquire to be honest,’’ he said.

“The plan is not to (play). I’ll be 41 next season so it’s time to put them away. Hopefully I can just be from the sidelines.’’