US ruck Alex Aurrichio returns to help Waratah ahead of NTFL finals

AMERICAN ruckman Alex Aurrichio has returned to playing for Waratah in the NTFL after a period out of the league for family reasons.The 29-year-old New Yorker is relatively new to the sport but has always wanted to play in the AFL.Waratah president Paul Gross cited the big ruckman as one of the team’s best players who was greatly missed while away.

Waratah ruckman Alex Aurrichio has returned for Waratah, with the Warriors still a slim finals chance. Picture: MICHAEL FRANCHI

AMERICAN ruckman Alex Aurrichio has returned to playing for Waratah in the NTFL after a period out of the league for family reasons.

The 29-year-old New Yorker is relatively new to the sport but has always wanted to play in the AFL.

Waratah president Paul Gross cited the big ruckman as one of the team’s best players who was greatly missed while away.

“He has been a fantastic find for us, he plays brilliantly in the ruck and leads by example,” Gross told the NT News.

“When he had to leave us we no doubt suffered as a side, but since his return the team has lifted significantly because of his presence.”

Aurrichio is a leader for the Tahs and has proven himself a strong example for those who play around him, including young ruckman Jordan Wilkins, who stepped up admirably in the American’s absence.

The big man has gathered plenty of high-level experience in his short career, having played for VFL side Northern Blues and SANFL club South Adelaide – all in a bid to earn a rookie contract with an AFL team.

In 2019 he signed with NEAFL club Southport Sharks, where he further studied the art of the ruck under former AFL player Matthew Primus.

“I think he (Aurrichio) has always had the talent to perform, I remember watching him when he played for South Adelaide and he showed that then,” Gross said. “His ruck skills have got a lot better and he pushes himself to improve each week. He’s a very talented young man. “I’ve never really spoke to him about his AFL ambitions but I believe he’s the sort of player that if he wants something he can achieve it.”

Waratah is still in with a chance of playing finals footy after its massive win over Wanderers on Sunday.