Gibbons had been training with Lavington since being overlooked in last month’s AFL rookie draft but has opted to join the Seagulls.

Williamstown football manager Chris Dixon was delighted to secure the talented youngster.

“Michael is a really exciting signing for us,” Dixon said.

“He has been one of the most prolific ball winners in the country in his age bracket in the past four years.

“He has averaged huge numbers wherever he has played and has such good hands in close.

“His numbers in the National Championships were at the upper end for all players and we think he can have an impact straight away at senior level, having had experience with Lavington in the strong Ovens and Murray competition.”

Gibbons played three matches for Lavington when free of TAC Cup and national championship commitments this season.

The dynamic midfielder captained the Murray Bushrangers and averaged 27 possessions in 11 TAC matches.

He also represented NSW/ACT in the under-18 championships and averaged 26 possessions and five marks in five matches.

Gibbons finished fifth in the Morrish medal despite only playing 11 games and was also named as rover in the TAC Cup Team of the Year.

Williamstown also recently signed Wangaratta midfielder Ben Davies.