New Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo hoping to cash in on fresh start as No. 1 ruck

Ivan Soldo made the move across to Alberton for a fresh start and the chance at being the No. 1 ruckman. After a gruelling pre-season, he’s won the battle against fellow recruit Jordan Sweet.

Ivan Soldo of the Power flies for a mark during the 2024 AFL Community Series match in Adelaide. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images.

After a long pre-season, ruckman Ivan Soldo finally gets to cash in on the promise of more opportunity and a fresh start at Port Adelaide.

Along with key defenders Esava Ratugolea and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Soldo will make his debut for the Power when it opens its season against West Coast at Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

After making the move from Richmond – where he played 57 games across eight seasons largely spent as a back-up to co-captain Toby Nankervis – Soldo will make his first appearance for Port Adelaide as the No. 1 ruckman.

“I’m pretty keen to get going, it has been a long pre-season. I’m ready to finally play for points now,” Soldo said.

“It’s been a tough road throughout my career but I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play as the number one ruck.

After the additions of Soldo and former Bulldog Jordon Sweet – adding to young tall Dante Visentini – the Power had debated whether it would go with a two-pronged strategy.

While he moved to Alberton to be a No. 1 ruck, Soldo didn’t mind the opportunity to have a helping hand in the middle.

“I like the idea of two rucks to be honest, but it is up to Ken (Hinkley) and every week is different,” he said.

With a midfield of Power captain Connor Rozee, reigning best and fairest Zak Butters, Brownlow Medallist Ollie Wines, young star Jason Horne-Francis and the dependable Willem Drew, Soldo will be the envy of many a ruckman this season with the engine room he will service.

“The accolades over their careers speaks for themselves and I’ve been fortunate enough to do pre-season with them as well and see their skills up close so I can’t wait to get out there,” he said.

“We are just keen to get out there and I’m keen to get out there at Adelaide Oval.”