WODONGA has lured Ballarat league representative Jake Hicks back to John Flower Oval.
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Hicks, who has spent the past few seasons at BFL heavyweight North Ballarat City, had planned to travel this year but has decided to return to his former club instead.
He is the older brother of 2011 best and fairest winner Josh.
Wodonga coach Ben Hollands was rapt to land a late gift on the recruiting front.
Hicks last played for the Bulldogs in 2008.
“It’s great we’ve managed to get him back,” he said.
“He’s played at Doutta Stars and then North Ballarat City, who won the flag last year.
“He’s a really smart player, who uses the ball well.”
Hicks is still overseas and faces a delayed start to the season.
He’s unlikely to play seniors against Lavington in round 1.
Another former Bulldog, Nathan McKendrick, also looks every chance of returning to John Flower Oval.
McKendrick, who starred in Barnawartha’s fairytale Tallangatta and District premiership last season, lined up for Wodonga in Saturday’s practice match against Shepparton Swans.
He is yet to commit to either club.
Hollands said the Bulldogs would take plenty out of Saturday’s match, despite suffering a six-goal defeat.
“We had about seven guys missing who will play round 1, so it was a good test,” he said.
“It took us a while to get going.”
In other Ovens and Murray news, Daniel Frawley has left Wodonga Raiders to play with Riverina league club Collingullie-Ashmont-Kapooka.