North Albury has landed a huge recruiting coup by signing former Collingwood midfielder Tim Broomhead.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Broomhead is arguably the biggest arrival at Bunton Park since Jason Akermanis was appointed coach of the Hoppers almost a decade ago in 2013.
Hopper officials went close to landing Broomhead this season before he opted to join Seaford in the Mornington Peninsula Netball Football league.
North Albury coach Luke Norman was delighted to lock in the prized signature of Broomhead over the weekend.
"It's fantastic news for the club and a bit of reward for effort for all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes," Norman said.
"Tim was very close to joining us this year but his partner had a baby and it was just easier for them to stay in Melbourne.
"Landing a high-profile recruit like Tim injects a bit of excitement around the place and shows the club is trying to make things happen and not just sitting around hoping.
"It gives potential recruits a bit of confidence that we are on the up and hell-bent on improving and players hopefully want to come along for the ride."
Broomhead has signed a two-year contract and will initially travel from Melbourne.
After being drafted by Collingwood in 2012 with pick 20, Broomhead played 37 matches at the elite level.
Broomhead was plagued by injuries during his time at the Pies with a bout of glandular fever and a broken wrist robbing him of more games in the black and white.
He was delisted at the end of 2020 and joined Seaford this season where he finished top-five in the league medal and won the club's best and fairest.
Norman said the 27-year-old was in the prime of his career.
"Tim is a ball magnet," Norman said.
"He is a terrific young man and I remember watching him play for Port Adelaide in the SANFL when I was involved over there.
"I have little doubt that he will prove to be an outstanding player in the O&M.
"I'm really looking forward to watching him play.
"Tim is a versatile player and you could play him in a number of different roles but obviously he will predominantly play in the midfield.
"But he will sneak forward as well and has the ability to kick goals."
ALSO IN SPORT
In further good news, the Hoppers have re-signed the majority of their list with no significant departures.
"I think the club is in a lot better position than it was 12 months ago and we have re-signed 30 senior players," Norman said.
"Being in the role for a year has given me the opportunity to see what the club needs.
"We have got a lot more people on board helping now and that eases a bit of pressure off me.
"Especially in regards to recruiting, Corey Lambert and a few blokes who I won't name have been working hard all year recruiting.
"We are trying to recruit the right people that will be the best fit for the club."
Norman is confident of announcing further signings in the next week.
Hoppers president Tony Burns was ecstatic to land a high-profile signing.
"We are excited to welcome Tim and his family to our proud club," Burns said.
"Tim's experience will be a big boost to our very young list and his signing will inject a shot of enthusiasm to our loyal sponsors, members and supporters."
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.bordermail.com.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @bordermail
- Follow us on Instagram @bordermail
- Follow us on Google News.