The Deniliquin Rams senior football side has announced six new recruits for 2023, including former ‘captain of the decade’ and one of their “star signings”, Lachy Small.
Returning coach Ash Morris said ‘Smally’ last played for Deni Rams in 2012 before going on to have “a stellar career” at Finley.
More recently he coached the Pambula Panthers.
“His resume speaks for itself, including multiple senior best and fairests and grand finals,” Morris said.
“He also captained both clubs, including the honour of Finley’s captain in their most recent team of the decade.
“A courageous, explosive and hard nosed midfielder, we look forward to seeing Smally back in action at Harding St oval next year.”
Also returning to the Rams fold is Nick Howe.
He is a former Rams best and fairest and premiership player, and even captains the Blue and Gold.
“We look forward to having his leadership and experience back at the club next season,” he said.
Two fresh faces for the Rams have also been secured.
Zachary Lauritsen joins the Rams after relocating from Newcastle, where he played with the Warners Bay Football Club.
“A mobile key position player, Zach will provide us with great running and marking power in our forward line,” Morris said.
Another player to join the Rams is Dan Leurs, who has relocated from Geelong and Winchelsea Football Club.
“Previously from Western Australia, Dan uses his endurance and skills to play across half back and midfield,” Morris said.
“We also welcome top age thirds players Miller Fitzpatrick and Isaac Suckling to the senior group, whilst there are a few previously retired players hinting of coming out of retirement.”
Morris says he is excited and optimistic about the season ahead.
“We are feeling confident heading into preseason,” he said.
“We understand that improvement is earned, not given, so we look forward to working hard over preseason on our fitness and areas of need.”
The Rams finished sixth in the 2022 Murray Football League season.
“We felt our foundations were set really strong last season, however we are motivated to build upon and continue raising our expectations as a playing group,” Morris said.
“Clearly fitness is your number one objective at this time of year.
“I am looking for our younger group to step up and lift the standards across the board.”
Morris said more work will be done on the playing list over coming weeks.