Southern league: Bentleigh star Michael Rogers joins Mornington

The Demons have been rocked by the departure of their dashing defender Michael Rogers, the latest leading player to leave Southern.

Michael Rogers gets in a clearing kick for Bentleigh.

Less than two weeks after Bentleigh announced Michael Rogers had committed to the club for 2022, the star Demon has moved on.

Rogers, one of the most respected players in the Southern league, has joined Mornington.

The Division 1 club had posted on social media on October 5 that the “coaching team and committee are pleased to announce that our co-captain Michael Rogers has recommitted to the Demons for season 2022’’.

“Rogers has been an integral part of the Demons since 2016 and was the SFNL’s youngest appointed captain in 2019.

“A brick wall across half back, with ability to intercept mark and run, we once again look forward to watching ‘Rog’ set us up down back in 2022. We thank ‘Rog’ for his loyalty and commitment.’’

But Mornington today confirmed it had locked in Rogers, who has represented the SFNL and been selected in Division 1 teams of the year.

Mornington coach Simon Goosey said his talent and leadership would be welcomed at the Bulldogs.

Mornington coach Simon Goosey.

“He wanted a new challenge, I think he was ready,’’ Goosey said.

“He’s been there (at Bentleigh) for a little while, he likes the league here … it’s a good get because to get a young leader, I was rapt.

“To be captain at such a young age probably speaks volumes for the bloke.

“He brings leadership. We’re looking forward to getting him there.

“He did pre-season with Essendon VFL the other year so he wants to take his footy serious and probably to the next level.

“He’s won two best and fairests, he played at Sandy Dragons, he was captain at 19-20, you know, he’s a ripper bloke.’’

Rogers is the latest leading player from SAFNL Division 1 to leave the league.

Port Melbourne Colts left-footer Chris Deluca has crossed to the Eastern league, St Paul’s midfielder Curtis Murfett has gone bush, league medal winner Chris Horton-Milne has left Dingley and returned to Noble Park, and St Kilda City spearhead Aaron Edwards is being linked with Western Region powerhouse Deer Park.

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