Two ruckmen, two Riddell District Football League stars – and a new coach – lead the list of recruits at St Albans Football Club.
The Saints have added big man Ty Armitage, who has crossed over from the Northern Blues, while Peter Akech has joined the club after moving from Adelaide.
They will be joined by Rupertswood duo Mitch Gaunt and Leigh Brennan, who are both former interleague representatives in the RDFL.
St Albans’ president Gus Jimenez said the signings would perfectly complement the club’s existing list.
“We think it’s really important that we have kept everyone from last year,” he said.
“They were all really keen to commit to next season, and we were really pleased with that. We think we had a good list last year. And we have added these guys to strengthen our midfield and ruck division; we’re really happy.”
It was a disappointing 2015 season for the Saints, who finished seventh on the Western Region Football League division 1 ladder.
The club moved quickly to consign that to history, signing new coach Fabian Carelli in September.
Carelli was former head coach at Montmorency and East Burwood between 2010 and 2014. Last season, he was a senior assistant coach at Victorian Amateur Football Association side De La Salle.
“Fabian has settled in really well,” Jimenez said.
“He’s very professional and all the boys are really enjoying training. Everything is set up ready to go.
“He has put in some really good structures. We have a new coach and I think it’s a chance for everyone to show what they’ve got.”
St Albans will begin its 2016 campaign against Hoppers Crossing.
While focused on getting the club’s senior side back into finals next year, the Saints are also hoping to shore up a long-term future.
The club wants to strengthen its junior division and is eager to hear from any youngsters in the area who would like to play next season.
Jimenez says the club is looking for players of all ages and abilities, and will hold a junior registration day on Sunday, February 7, between 11am and 4pm.
Anyone needing more information can contact Gus Jimenez on Gus.Jimenez@Expeditors.com
