Former Goulburn Valley star Shaun Huy joined the Roos on Friday afternoon and his, somewhat surprising, philosophy will delight Roos’ officials.

“It was the same reason to go to Shep United (in 2010), a team that’s battled and is looking to push forward, that’s a huge motivation for me,” he said.

“It’s rewarding turning a side expected to be an underdog and getting something out of them.”

And the 90-kilogram midfielder has made a habit of helping transform clubs.

Shep United won successive premierships, while Queensland outfit Redland finished third after missing finals action just the previous season.

The 30-year old represented the GV for four years and has been a regular top performer in club best and fairests, picking up the top gong at United.

However, he’s coming off a frustrating year with Heidelberg which might, in effect, be another positive for the Roos, chasing their first win since 2015.

“I’m obviously disappointed with the year and I pride myself on getting the most out of my footy,” he said.

“I’ve got more guys working for me now (in my landscaping business), so I can concentrate a lot more on my own training.”

Huy will continue to live in Melbourne, but is hoping to gain some landscaping work on the Border, which would allow him to train with the Roos more consistently.

“For the guys to know there’s an A grader will make them walk a bit taller,” coach Marc Almond said.

“He’ll be good for our young guys like Tyson Logie, Dylan Cook and Tyler Spencer and those young guys who will hope to play through the middle.

“It will also be good for our forwards like James Lawton to get more supply.”

The Roos have also signed near two-metre tall Kilmore ruckman James Atkinson.