The Deni Rams will be without two of their most senior footballers next year.
Both Ricky Gittens and Jack Tyndall have been announced as big signings for the Tocumwal Football Netball Club.
It’s not just a change of teams for the longtime Rams, it also means they switch from the Murray Football League to the Picola League.
Gittens and Tyndall both played in the Rams’ last senior premiership winning side, in 2011.
They were also integral for the Rams this year, which means they are key gets for The Bloods.
“I just needed a change, something to be excited about with my footy again,” Gittens said of the move.
“I have got a lot of good mates out there (at Toc).
“Dane Maxwell, one of my good mates, is playing out there and another good mate in Josh Peers will be returning to the club.
“A new environment will be good I think, just to freshen things up.”
Ricky Gittens has been a long-time servant of the Deni Rams, beginning his senior journey close to 15 years ago.
He has not yet played for another club.
He was the Murray League’s Rookie of the Year, is a premiership player with the Rams, and has played more than 200 games for the Rams seniors.
On top of these achievements, he is also a life member of the club and has won three senior best and fairest awards, making him the third highest on the club’s list of most best and fairest awards.
Tyndall was also part of the Rams’ 2011 senior premiership side and has played more than 200 club games - including 100 senior games - with the club.
He also previously served the club as Rams assistant senior coach.
Like Gittens, Tyndall said friend and family connections prompted his decision to switch clubs.
“I’ve got a lot of good mates out there this year and my sister and nephews play at the club, and I was just feeling like a bit of a change,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to it.
“Having a good relationship with coaching helps, as well as what the (Tocumwal) club is building for next year too; it’s exciting.
“I can’t thank the Deni Rams enough, they have been very understanding“
“They have been such a great support, when I was actually a bit worried letting them know.
“I love the club so much, and I will be back before calling it quits (on football). I just really wanted to get a fresh start somewhere; try something different.”
Tyndall was part of the Rams’ reserves side’s push for a premiership this year, which went to Mulwala by the thinnest of margins.
He was also named player of the finals' series in 2024 for the Rams reserves.
Tyndall is not new to the Picola League style of competition, having previously laced up the boots for the Blighty Football Club.
Gittens and Tyndall are two big losses for the Rams, but should create opportunities for younger footballers to break through and get some senior experience at Deni.
Their move to Tocumwal signals the Picola League club is rebuilding after not having the strongest of seasons this year, nabbing only four wins from 16 games played.