Amid a relatively settled off-season, North Wagga have recruited a key forward from the Central West League and confirmed the return of a trio of club juniors.
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Tim Barry has won two premierships with Orange Tigers – including one as captain – and will travel to play with the Saints, most likely at centre-half-forward.
Originally from Victoria, Barry, 27, kicked nearly 80 goals in 2014 and in 2015 before missing most of last season with injury.
“He approached us – he used to work with Sam Burley a few years back – and the Farrer League is the next league with a decent standard of footy,” North Wagga coach Kirk Hamblin said.
“He liked the idea of our young group and hopefully being part of a team on the rise,” Hamblin said.
Barry’s arrival is likely to see assistant coach Daniel Jordan revert to defence.
The Saints also welcome back midfielder/forward Cayden Winter after two years at Tumbarumba where he was runner-up in the club best and fairest.
While former promising under 17s, Chris Leywood and Bradie Steiner, are back after a year off.
“That’s the most exciting thing about Cayden, Chris and Bradie – you’re getting locals back, their hearts in the club and they want the club to do well,” Hamblin said.
Former Leeton junior, William Boyes, has also signed on after moving to Wagga and looms as a potential ruck option. Hamblin believes the signings add to the club’s depth.
Former coach Nathan Dowdle is the Saints’ significant departure (to Wagga Tigers) while Ben Reid and Hayden McLachlan also exit.
After the disappointment of missing the finals in 2016, the Saints have already had one training session last week. Hamblin said it was to get together for a run but also to set out the expectations for next season.
Their pre-season proper will get underway on January 10.