Former Grovedale player Andrew McNeel will play for the Hoppers after moving from the Geelong district for university.

"He's a big body, aggressive and as fit as a fiddle," delighted North coach Isaac Muller said.

"He's a midfielder, half-forward flank and he'll add depth in the forward line to take some pressure off Josh Lloyd and Will McGrath.

"He'll bob up and kick a couple of goals each game I reckon."

It's been a busy off-season for the Hoppers, losing a number of big names, including 300-gamer Dan Leslie, but the club has also signed a stack of replacements, including former VFL player Ned McKeown.

The centre half-back starred in the club's final practice match against Mangoplah-Cookardinia-Eastlakes on Thursday night.

"He was on fire, he kicked a few goals," Muller said.

Turvey Park recruit Jackson Weidemann was the standout, spending most of his time in defence before moving into the midfield.

Julian Hayes and Mitch Thomas joined George and Tom Godde as the other top performers for the youthful Hoppers.

The club will now focus on the season opener away to Lavington next Saturday.

Meanwhile other clubs will also round out their pre-seasons on Saturday.

Albury is home to Bundoora immediately after the Fight MND game between the Danihers and All-Stars.

Elsewhere, Myrtleford faces Geelong's St Mary's, Wodonga hosts Benalla, Wodonga Raiders host Northcote Park while Wangaratta is home to Yarrawonga.