A long-term focus is the aim for Whittlesea as it looks to return to the Northern Football League’s division 1.
After winning only one match this season, the Eagles will play in division 2 next year.
Coach Brad Dean said while the Eagles would like to go straight back up to the top division, they had recruited players with one eye to the future.
“I suppose the key thing for us so far has been more long-term options,” Dean said.
“We got the best available young talent that we are hoping will settle with us for the long term.
“We are doing something right if players want to sign with us.”
Cameron Conlon and Jai Robinson are two of the signings.
Dean admits that both players might not play much football for the club next year.
“Cameron signed on 6-7 weeks ago [from the Northern Knights] and he will do everything he can to play football for the Northern Blues in the VFL.
“Jai has a lot of friends at the club and it was them more than anything that got him across the line. Like Cam, he is trying to play VFL this season [with Coburg].”
Other signings are Jaron Murphy and Luke Crowley.
“Jaron has just finished school and has been training with the Calder Cannons.
“Luke is local Whittlesea boy and he is committed to us. He is keen to establish himself as a senior player.”
Dean said the Eagles had kept most of their players from last season.
Jeremy Page i has left Eagles, and has joined Craigieburn in the Essendon District Football League.
“He is a huge loss for us, but it gives someone else a chance to fill the role,’’ Dean said.
“Nathan Stefanile has been earmarked for a while to help with the ruck duties. He is a 21-year-old who can dominate the competition.”
