FARRER LEAGUE
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FARRER League champion Temora has snagged its first big recruit as it prepares to defend back-to-back premierships.
The Kangaroos last night signed talented key position player Matt Wallis.
Wallis, 20, comes from playing reserve grade at South Australian National Football League (SANFL) club Norwood under experienced coach Nathan Bassett.
Standing around two metres tall, he is an athletic centre half forward who can also play across half back.
Temora coach Mark Kruger was chasing Wallis last year and eventually got his man.
"We're really excited to get this one," Kruger said.
"Even though he's only 20, having spent that time in the SANFL he brings a lot of experience to the forward line.
"He's six (foot) six (inches) or six-seven, but he's a fitness freak and he comes ready-made."
Kruger pointed out Wallis would play a different role to the retired Scott Blackwell, who spent most of his time at full forward.
He plans to utilise Wallis, Luke Gerhard and Matt Harpley in similar roles throughout the year, all being tall running forwards.
Wallis is the first significant signing for the Kangaroos as the club prepares to reconstruct its line-up following the departure of a handful of important players.
Blackwell, Michael Oliver (retired) and Jake Barrett (GWS Giants) have all left, while Dan and Adam Reid have indicated they will take a step back from playing this year.
In a boost for Temora, Mark Breust is due to pull on a jumper for the first time since breaking his leg at the end of the 2012 season.
"Mark is fit as hell, he's come back in great shape and is training the house down," Kruger said.
"We are thinking he will play full forward or key back so he will be another handy pick-up for us."
Player numbers are not a drama for Temora, with Kruger boasting a turnout of 47 at last week's training.
Thirteen players have graduated from the under 17 competition and will add depth to the senior squad.
Kruger is thrilled with his list already but admitted he would snatch up another tall forward if the opportunity came along.
"We didn't want to go out and recruit 10 or 12 guys with the number of players we have already," he said.
"If we have a problem with the side we always like to fill a hole with local guys first."
Temora is due to take on RFL premier Coolamon in the annual Charity Shield game on March 15.
Kruger plans to organise two other trials before the season kicks off on April 12.