Coach Jarrod Hodgkin remains hopeful that Wodonga Raiders can land a marquee signing before the start of the season.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
After losing in the elimination final last year, Hodgkin is fully aware the Raiders desperately need at least another high-profile signing or risk losing touch with the competition heavyweights.
Premiership contenders Myrtleford (Dawson Simpson and Taylor Hunt), Albury (Anthony Miles and Jeff Garlett), Wangaratta (Ben Reid) and Yarrawonga (Willie Wheeler, Leigh Masters and Lachie Howe) have all added significant firepower since last year.
Hodgkin said the Raiders had more than enough points up their sleeve to accommodate a big-name recruit.
"We are still on the lookout for a big name or two and have been talking to a couple," Hodgkin said.
"So fingers crossed we are in the mix to sign a couple in the next month or so.
"Obviously there will be a bit of player movement after next week's AFL draft.
"But a lot of blokes that miss out on the draft want to stay in the state leagues so it's still a challenge to try and recruit them.
"But there are going to be guys that become available.
"We have got points available but the reduction in the salary cap does make things a bit tricky.
"I still feel we will be more than competitive with the list we have got but another one or two big signings will put us right up there."
IN OTHER NEWS
The Raiders' biggest departures have been man mountain Brodie A'Vard alongside Jaxon Neagle and Alex Daly.
A'Vard has returned to home club Barooga after one season at Birallee Park while Jaxon Neagle has been lured back to Central Districts after committing to the Raiders this year.
The Raiders signed former North Albury coach Isaac Muller and Hoppers recruit Jacob Smith in August.
Hodgkin (5) alongside A'Vard (4) were worth the most points on the list last season.
"Losing A'Vard freed up a few points but Muller is worth more," he said.
Hodgkin said a key defender was high on the recruiting wish-list.
"It's no secret we need another key defender, especially to combat sides like Wangaratta who could boast an attack comprising Ben Reid, Michael Newton and Josh Porter," he said.
"We were on the hunt for one anyway but now it's become crucial that we get one."