By Tara Murray
Cameron Cloke has signed on for a second stint at Jacana in the Essendon District Football League.
After helping guide the side to a division 2 premiership in 2017, before moving on last season and playing with Hurstbridge and Barooga, Cloke rejoined the Jaguars as an assistant playing coach for next season.
It’s a big boost for the Jaguars which won just one game in division 1 last season.
Jaguars coach Matthew Huy said it was only in the last three weeks he had spoke with Cloke about coming to the club.
The first year coach was an assistant coach at Hurstbridge last season where Cloke played the first part of the season.
He said things didn’t work out for Cloke at Hurstbridge for a number of reasons, but he had enjoyed his time there, making a number of friends.
“It was only two to four weeks ago we went into discussions with him about coming across and through a lot of conversations and catch ups we came to an agreement,” Huy said.
“I was happy to offer him as assistant coaching role and it’s was something that he was happy to do.”
Huy said having Cloke back at the club was massive bonus for the side, with his experience and leadership vital.
He said they didn’t think they would have to rely on him as much as they did in 2017 when he kicked 127 goals.
“For Jacana to be winning games, we need to have the whole 22 having success on the ground.
“He’s knowledge and expertise is great for Jacana and the players.
“Even as an assistant coach, he is wanting to help the club get back to the success it has had over a number of years.”
Huy said at this stage Cloke has signed a one year contract, but that could be extended another year if everything goes well.
Cameron is set to be the only Cloke in Jacana colours this year, with his older brother Jason Cloke, who played this year at the club, moving to Queensland.
While there has been some talk that younger brother Travis Cloke might play some games, Huy said there hadn’t been any discussions with Travis about playing.
“He’s looking at focusing on his coaching career.”
The announcement of Cameron Cloke rejoining the Jagaurs is the latest announced by the club.
While there’s been several new players join the club, Huy said the signing of
Former Jaguars junior Kane Murfett is a massive one.
“Kane is only 21 and junior at the club,” he said.
“He went through Cannons and played footy at Pascoe Vale. It’s a huge pick up and we’re trying to pursue young blood.”
While the Jaguars had been hoping to stay in division 1, Huy said it was a pleasing in disguise that they would return to division 2.
“We can start rebuilding and get the success and winning feeling back at the club and get the supporters back on board,” he said.
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