Collingwood Bolsters Rookie List with Trio of New Signings; Former VFL Star Lachie Sullivan Among Recruits. In a strategic move, Collingwood Football Club has announced the addition of three promising players to its rookie list, with VFL standout Lachie Sullivan securing a coveted spot following an impressive display during the intraclub match on Wednesday.
While expectations were high for former Port Adelaide ruck Brynn Teakle to secure a pre-season supplemental period (SSP) signing, the spotlight shifted to 26-year-old Sullivan, who joins the reigning premiers after a stellar season at Footscray.
Additionally, former Essendon tall Josh Eyre, despite enduring setbacks from pre-season injuries in recent years, has been granted an opportunity by Collingwood. Eyre, who missed out on a spot at St Kilda due to a serious hamstring injury in 2023, and suffered another setback last week, has received backing from the Magpies to recover and contribute to the team’s efforts in 2024. Eyre showcased his abilities as a key defender in nine games for Collingwood’s VFL side last season.
Joining the ranks is former St Kilda midfielder Jack Bytel, who was delisted after six appearances at Moorabbin last year. Despite the exclusion of Teakle, Magpies VFL captain Campbell Hustwaite, and VAFA defender Sam Sofronidis, Collingwood retains the option to add another player to its list, contingent upon placing Dan McStay on the long-term injury list. However, there is a prevailing sentiment within the club to afford McStay an opportunity for a potential return late in the 2024 season.
Collingwood’s track record in supplementing its roster is notable, demonstrated by the successful signing of Oleg Markov through the SSP last year, subsequently transforming him into a premiership defender. With the deadline for signings set for February 19, Collingwood remains committed to strategic recruitment initiatives.
In other AFL news, Fremantle Football Club has announced the signing of key forward Patrick Voss, formerly of Essendon, to its rookie list. Voss, who impressed during training sessions over the summer, clinched the Bombers’ VFL best and fairest award in 2023 with 30 goals in 17 games. His addition to Fremantle’s roster addresses a key requirement for the team, as stated by Fremantle’s head of list management, David Walls.
Meanwhile, at Gold Coast Suns, anticipation builds for the potential early debut of Ben King in 2024, following an encouraging performance during Thursday’s hitout. Despite injury setbacks, King showcased promising form, with established midfielders Noah Anderson, Matt Rowell, Sam Flanders, and Touk Miller expected to feature prominently under coach Damien Hardwick’s leadership. Noteworthy defensive performances were observed from Charlie Ballard, Connor Budarick, and Bodhi Uwland, while Alex Sexton’s transition into the backline showed promising glimpses. Mac Andrew’s versatility across multiple positions highlighted his potential during the B team’s matches.