Grossman, 26, signed with the club on Monday night while holidaying at Bright and, with 40 matches of senior VFL experience, shapes as a crucial late signing for coach Judd Porter.

He was also chased by Wodonga Raiders.

Click play to watch Grossman kicking ABC television's goal of the day for Williamstown in round 21 last season.

“My dad and I have been coming to Bright pretty much since I was born and I have seen a fair few Ovens and Murray matches over the years,” Grossman said yesterday.

“I think my best footy years are still ahead of me and this is the next best level outside the VFL.

“It’s a good fit.

“I guess I have been waiting for an opportunity like this to come along and I’m really looking forward to playing for Wangaratta.

“A couple of my mates are at Wodonga Raiders and I considered going there, but Wangaratta really impressed me as well.”

Grossman played finals football at Williamstown with high-profile Raiders’ signings Ben Davies and David Stretton last season and, until late last week, looked bound for Birallee Park.

Porter said Grossman, who stands at 187cm, could play back, forward or through the midfield.

“You don’t pick up quality players like Matt in mid-January too often and we’re excited to have him on board,” he said.

The Magpies will take dislodging from the top five with VAFA forward James Wong also signing at Norm Minns Oval.

He kicked 64 goals for Williamstown last year.