Tara Murray
Albanvale has been busy locking in the key pieces for next year’s Western Region Football League division 3 season.
The Cobras have announced a number of re-signings in recent weeks, while have announced a number of new players who have committed to the club.
The Cobras had a strong 2021 and were sitting second on the ladder when it was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Andrew Bryson will again take on the coaching role, with club games record holder Dean Formosa joining him as a co-coach.
On field, Nathan Smith joins the club division 3 rival Braybrook.
Smith has spent the past five seasons with Braybrook, having previously played for Northcote Park, Panton Hill and Lalor.
“I have always kept a close eye on the club for numerous years as they have always been a really tough competitor to play against,” Smith said in a post on the Cobras Facebook page.
“They have some really good talent there and I’m really looking forward to getting amongst the group and working hard to achieve the club goals.
“I’m very eager to get into preseason and see where the season takes us.”
Ostinn Bellingham will add to the Cobras midfield.
The 20-year-old has committed to the club for the next two seasons. Bellingham played most of his junior football at the Greensborough before moving to Westmeadows where he won an under-19 league best and fairest.
He played at Greenvale this year.
Bellingham said he was super excited by what the club had to offer.
“I can’t wait to get to training and train with my new teammates. It will be exciting to work with the midfield group and pushing each other to get the very best out of ourselves.”
The Montrose brothers have also come across from the EDFL.
Laim most recently played with Tullamarine, while his brother Daniel had been playing for Westmeadows.
Their father Anthony Montrose coached the Cobras 2010 reserves side premiership.
In another boost Jarryd Formosa is returning to the field after stepping away from the game in recent years.
He said he can’t wait to get back onto the field.
“I snuck a game in a few years back and hurt my knee and said that was the sign to stop.
“Over time, popping into the club made me realise, I really miss the footy culture and Albanvale has been my second home for so long.
“I have lots of mates there and [I’m] super proud to see what a great position the club is now in. I have no idea where my footy will take me in 2022.”
