Brothers have been one of the most active players this off-season as it looks to improve from a disappointing 2021 campaign where they were unable to register a victory.

Brothers' recruitment windfall has continued with the return of not only McCauley, but Liam Carey, Aaron Wynne and Maleke Morris.

The trio all sat out this year due to injury but are ready to help a rejuvenated Brothers climb off the canvas.

Brothers co-coach James Hay was happy to welcome McCauley back after a season with Southcity.

"We're very happy. Connor's a talent," Hay said.

"We're all mates and even when he left, we were all still hanging out on weekends so it's good to have him back.

"He's played in a grand final before, which is pretty valuable around here to have a guy who knows what it takes."

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The return of McCauley, Carey, Wynne and Morris comes on the back of the signings of Quakers Hill utility Troy Dargin and brothers Fletcher and Bas Blackett.

They will also be boosted by co-coach Brodie Rigg's on-field availability after leading this year from the sidelines.

"There is 26 blokes signed up wanting to play first grade," Hay said.

"There's going to be a lot more competitions for spots so we're pretty excited."

Wynne will provide another option at hooker for Brothers, while Carey, like McCauley, will boost the forward pack. Morris, who joins elder brother Clifford at the club, can play a variety of roles.

Meantime, Hay captured his second best and fairest at Brothers at their presentation recently.

Hay, who led from the front all season, grabbed another best and fairest award, ahead of runner up Cade Price. Tomasi Barvilala was player's player.

"I would have been happier as a team if we got a few more wins on the board," Hay said.

"It's a pretty good little honour roll when you look at the names who have won it for the club, so it's good."

Madison Dunn won the leaguetag best and fairest, while Matthew O'Neill (Burmeister Shield) and Will Roworth (Weissel Cup) took out the lower grades.

Mitch Carter was named best junior progressing to grade, while Wilson Hamblin won rookie of the year ad best defensive player.

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