NEWTOWN & Chilwell has struck an early blow over GFL rival St Joseph's, winning the services of highly sought-after recruit Ryan Normington.
The Eagles have confirmed Normington, a former under-17 Australian representative, has committed to Elderslie Reserve, choosing them over Joeys and a host of other clubs in the region who were eagerly chasing his signature.
The 22-year-old arrives in Geelong fresh from starring roles in back-to-back premierships for Shepparton United in the Goulburn Valley Football League.
He will be joined at the Eagles by decorated midfielder and 2011 Northern Bullants VFL vice-captain Jarrod McCorkell, 27, to add depth to the club's engine room.
"We looked at the areas where we need to improve and there's no doubt the midfield is one of those," Eagles coach Jacob Spolding said.
St Joseph's was believed to be close to signing Normington, a link coming through coach Russell Robertson who played against him in the GVFL, before the Eagles snaffled their man.
"We found out he was going to uni down here, got in touch with him and went from there," Spolding said of the 2007 AFL draft hopeful.
"Hopefully, if his form warrants it, he can find his way down to the Geelong VFL. The way the (AFL) clubs are drafting these days, hopefully he could still get picked up."
McCorkell's credentials speak volumes. A VFL representative in 2010, he has won a best and fairest at the Bullants and WAFL club Perth as well as spending time with Spolding at North Ballarat.
"He'll be fantastic for us, obviously his playing skills are great but his leadership qualities are important for the group too."
Spolding confirmed the Eagles had also signed East Geelong's Luke Edmonson.
Former Geelong star Cameron Mooney last week confirmed he would not be playing at the Eagles next year.
Last Modified on 10/12/2012 13:13