Six weeks out from the season, the Hoppers are just awaiting confirmation on the transfers of experienced pair Michael Dunn and Roy Kantilla and rising star Jack Munkara.

Dunn has played close to 100 senior games for the Tiwi club and is renowned for consistency and ability off half-back. He was in the Bombers’ best in their last seven games this season. 

Kantilla predominantly plays up forward. He was the first at his club to kick 10 goals in a game, back in 2009, and this year played his 150^th match.

“I know they’re pretty accomplished footballers – they’re both experienced – so it should be pretty exciting for our league and especially for our footy club,” Coolamon coach Matt Hard said.

“Jack Munkara is younger but he’s played quite a bit of NT footy over the years and hopefully we can also help him develop his footy here.”

Munkara is known for his clean skills and vision while Hard added that Dunn “has a bit of toe about him and uses the ball quite well”.

Hard was part of a Coolamon contingent which headed north to see the players in action. 

He’s wary of getting too carried away – particularly while still awaiting finalisation of transfers – but hopes the injection of talent will suit a young and developing Hoppers outfit.

“We’ve got some recruits from outside the area and definitely it’s a sign of how we want to play,” he said.

“We haven’t got a lot of height so we wanted to get some fleet-footed players in and around our guys.

“We’re getting Joe (Redfern) and Mitch (Stephenson) back and Ben Alexander (previously at North Wagga) hasn’t missed a beat at training. 

“But it’ll be nice picking up Michael and Roy and Jack.

“It is a big ask for them coming off a season up there, and it might take them a little while to get used to our style of footy but once they get here they should be good.”

Coolamon’s season starts at Mangoplah on April 22.