THE Rock-Yerong Creek has unveiled the first of three quality signings to join its list for 2013.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Magpies coach Michael Mazzocchi yesterday announced Narrandera onballer Tim Mathieson has put pen to paper and will join the Farrer League next season.
Mathieson had already agreed to play with the Magpies last week but the club was waiting to make the announcement until he informed the Eagles of his departure.
The rugby league convert only picked up a Sherrin for the first time in 2004 but has since cemented himself as one of the Riverina Football League's best midfielders.
Mazzocchi was thrilled to welcome Mathieson aboard.
He says the inclusion of Mathieson covers for the loss of star onballer Ryan Chamberlain.
"Tim is a different player to Chambo I guess, but he will fill up that same ruck-roving position that Chambo had," Mazzocchi said.
"He is good mates with Dale Hugo so those two will be able to fill that middle area well.
"Tim is fit and strong and we reckon he will fit into the team well."
Mathieson started off playing reserve grade at Narrandera but was soon promoted to firsts and went on to play the next eight seasons with the Eagles.
He was a vital part of their premiership-winning team this year but decided to join TRYC as he plans to move to Wagga with his partner.
Mathieson's signing came at the same time Chamberlain informed TRYC he will rejoin Coolamon for next season.
Mazzocchi had said earlier in the week Chamberlain was unsure of his plans, but Hoppers coach Matt Hard confirmed on Tuesday the tough onballer had signed with his old club.
"Chambo hadn't signed for next season but we were confident he was going to give us two seasons," Mazzocchi said.
"So we were quite disappointed he left.
"But I guess he wanted to try to win a premiership with his home club, which is understandable.
"In hindsight him leaving probably made us sit up and chase those two or three guys who we wouldn't have signed otherwise."
Mazzocchi planned to sit down with a second player last night and will "make a road trip" tomorrow to meet with a third prospective signing.
He hopes to announce two more signings on Monday.
