ALBURY has landed its first off-season coup by luring dual premiership defender Jay Koehler back to Albury Sportsground.
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With the Tigers’ departures climbing to nine, Koehler’s return will be vital when the Ovens and Murray heavyweight sets out to defend its crown.
Koehler moved to Queensland after playing in Albury’s losing 2012 grand final team and dominated for Burleigh Bombers in his first season in the QAFL.
The reliable full-back didn’t play this season.
“It’s fantastic to get Jay back to the club,” Albury co-coach Chris Hyde said yesterday.
“He’s a quality player and person, and is going to strengthen our back six enormously.
“It also gives us the potential to roll out a key position defender if we need one of them further up the ground.
“We’re lucky he’s decided to come back to the area.”
Koehler’s return will help offset some hefty losses, with exciting youngster Matt Munro the latest to confirm he will be leaving the Tigers to play with VFL club Werribee.
Fellow premiership players Lonnie Hampton (Glenelg), Josh Robinson (Sydney), Andy Carey and Tom Yates (The Rock-Yerong Creek) have found new homes, while giant ruckman Luke Wells will also be moving on.
Toby Blissett (Jindera), Josh Maher (Murray Magpies) and Josh Gaynor (Henty) will play in the Hume league after being regular senior players in recent seasons.
Albury’s only signings are Henty’s Ryan Hon and the Sydney AFL league’s best and fairest winner Alex Goodall.
Originally from Howlong, Koehler joined Albury from the Murray Bushrangers in 2008 and played in the Tigers’ 2009 and 2011 premierships.
His last match for Albury was the losing 2012 grand final against Yarrawonga.
Meanwhile, Wangaratta best and fairest winner Matt Grossman has officially joined Avondale Heights.
