Connor Newnham heads bush to play with Kiewa-Sandy Creek

Newnham recently signed with the Tallangatta league powerhouse in a major blow to Wodonga Raiders remaining a finals force.

The developing key forward was the Raiders' main avenue to goal this season alongside classy match-winner Jydon Neagle.

Neagle has also departed Birallee Park to coach Balranald next year.

Newnham is looking forward to playing alongside some former Raiders and good mates at Kiewa-Sandy Creek.

"I just want to get back to enjoying my football again," Newnham said.

"With COVID ruining the past two seasons it has sort of dulled my passion for the game a bit I guess.

"I think heading to the bush and playing alongside a few good mates will be the best thing for my football.

"I loved my time at Raiders but need a change of scenery.

"I've got some good mates at Kiewa in Jack DiMizio, Dillon Blaszczyk and Jack Haugen who I'm looking forward to playing alongside."

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Originally from Upper Murray club Border Walwa, Newnham has been at Birallee Park since 2015 where he started off in the thirds.

The 22-year-old has since established himself as one of the most promising developing key forwards in the competition.

The powerfully built youngster averaged two goals a match this season.

Newnham was looking forward to his stint in the bush.

"Recent history says Kiewa is a powerhouse in the league and I'm excited to be joining the Hawks and I want to have a real crack," he said.

"Hopefully I find my love for footy again."

Newnham has left the door ajar for a return to Birallee Park in the future where he is closing in on his 100-match milestone.

"I've told the Raiders they will always be my first choice if I return to the O&M," he said.

"I've played 90 odd matches in the seniors and getting to 100 one day is in the back of my mind.

"I wasn't too happy with my form at the start this year but I thought it improved as the season wore on.

"I probably struggled with my consistency the most and played some good footy in patches.

"That's definitely something that I need to work on."

The Hawks remain on the hunt for a new coach to replace premiership mentor Adam Mudra.

Mudra stepped down at the end of the season after five years at the helm.

Hawks football manager Malcolm Vogel is hopeful the club can make an announcement on its coach in the next fortnight.

He said the club would 'more than likely' appoint a non-playing coach.

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