FORMER Wodonga Raider John Spencer spent most of his time at Birallee Park playing out of the goalsquare.
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But Holbrook’s big recruit for this season bristles at suggestions he is a one-trick pony.
“I have probably been pigeon-holed by most people as just being a full-forward, but I think I’ve got few more strings to my bow,” Spencer said.
“Two years ago when Ken Stevenson was Raiders coach, I spent most of the season in the ruck and it was probably the best year I’ve had.
“I was stereotyped early on as a full-forward and coaches were reluctant to try me elsewhere. I think I can play anywhere.
“I played on Fev last year and kept him to five goals, which I thought wasn’t a bad effort.
“The next time we played them, I was playing in the twos and he kicked 16.”
Spencer has always been considered a talented O and M player who has only shown glimpses of his ability.
Since making his senior debut in 2011 under coach Corey Lambert, the burly forward has booted 56 goals from 41 matches.
The 23-year-old has also kicked 107 goals in 30 reserves matches over three seasons.
Spencer is the first to admit he at times lacked motivation to train to the standard required to be an consistent O and M player.
“I didn’t work as hard as I could have the last three years I was there,” he said.
“I didn’t get the most out of myself as I should have.
“I don’t know if I’m entirely to blame but a few things happened at the club and I sort of lost my passion.”
Spencer was lured to Holbrook by mate Hayden Hibberson and is relishing the Hume league’s lower level.
The strong-marking forward has booted 11 goals in two matches and is a handy replacement for Brad Thompson, who has signed with Old Ivanhoe after topping the Brookers’ goalkicking with 42 last season.
“I’ve loved the change of scenery,” Spencer said.
“They are a great bunch of boys. It’s a bit more relaxed.
“You only have to train two nights a week and have a bit more fun socially.
“I’ve got my passion back for the game and have set myself the goal of kicking at least 80 for the season.
“A lot of people have written us off as contenders but I reckon we have got the best kids in the competition and will surprise a few teams.”