A number of new recruits including Xavier Walker, Lachlan Philips, Kyle Maskell Dunstan, Joe Lindera, Riley O’Kane, Callum Deoleveira, Axel Doherty and Ethan Stephens have all been welcomed to the Den.
The Wahgunyah Lions are getting on the front foot for the 2024 season, announcing the signatures of 10 recruits as well as retaining Chris Willis as full-time coach.
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Last week the Lions announced Xavier Walker, Lachlan Philips, Kyle Maskell Dunstan, Joe Lindera, Riley Okane, Callum DeOleveira, Axel Doherty, Ethan Stephens, Andrew Maskell Dunstan and Blake Roulston had signed to the Den for season 2024.
The early recruitment drive has been boosted by Hume Football League Commentator John Luci who was keen to get involved with the club as he has plans to move to the local area.
Chris Willis will lead the charge for the Wahgunyah Lions in 2024.
With the momentum in full swing Willis told the Free Press he is honoured to have been approached to take the reins of Wahgunyah full time.
“It’s going to be a challenge, but I am up for the challenge,” Willis said.
“I love the club and the people. My family has a connection with the club as my grandad played here so I wanted to continue the family involvement.
“We are rebuilding really well with a couple of changes with the recruiting team.
“It is really good to be putting together a core group and that we have got on the front foot.
“Signing a group of recruits so early is a reward for our efforts and the work that was done around the club this year in particular.
“Another positive is that we didn’t lose any players from our 2023 list.
“This drive should encourage people to see how hard our club is working and wanting to be a part of that.”
Wahgunyah Football Netball Club President Darryl Hore said the club is thrilled to have retained Willis as playing coach as he brings so much to the Lions on and off the field.
“Willo came to our club just to help out at the beginning of 2023 and ended joining our coaching ranks,” Mr Hore said.
“Willo is not only an amazing player and coach but is of outstanding character.
“Our goal was to get an experienced and level-headed bloke around our young list and believe me, Chris is that guy.
“To also have John Luci on board in the recruiting role is exciting for the club.
“John has hit the ground running and honestly had our heads spinning with the contacts and his ability to make things happen.
“To the Wahgunyah FNC community, get behind Chris and the club for what is shaping up to be an exciting 2024.”
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