NEWTOWN & Chilwell is bracing for life without star ruckman Brad Ottens.
Ottens has indicated to the Eagles that he will retire, with senior coach Jacob Spolding admitting the three-time Geelong premiership player was unlikely to lace up the boots for a second season.
"He (Ottens) wanted to take some time to get away, (but) it's more likely than not he'll retire," Spolding said yesterday.
"I'm sure he'll make that decision over the break and let us know but more than likely he'll retire, I would've thought.
"He was fantastic for us this year. We loved him being around the footy club and we think he enjoyed it as well but I think he's keen to do some other things.
"Obviously football's been a big part of his life for a long time, so I'm sure he'd like to spend a little bit more time with his wife and get away from footy and have the weekends to themselves."
Spolding confirmed only Simon Rau had retired from the team that was eliminated in the second semi-final, but revealed a handful of players were planning to travel overseas next season.
Playmaker Jay Bett, former Geelong VFL-listed player Rob Condy and forward Sam Taylor will spend the early part of 2013 travelling and Spolding is unsure whether they will return.
"There's one or two boys potentially going overseas next year, but whether that's for the whole year or part of the year, we're not sure," Spolding said.
Spolding confirmed former Geelong and St Kilda utility Ryan Gamble, who has one year remaining on his contract and midfielder Jarrod McCorkell would play next season.
Mick Stanley also returns to the club after battling a long-term achilles injury but the Eagles are yet to unveil any new recruits.
"We're in talks with a number of players, and at this time of the year most people are away on holidays or have weddings, so we're looking to hear back from players over the next couple of weeks and hopefully we can add some (new players)," Spolding said.
Last Modified on 20/11/2013 20:22