The Labrador Tigers have managed to secure the services of former Sydney premiership player Barry Hall.
Recent talks with former SUNS and Sydney Swans player Nick Malceski have failed get over the line however, due to Malceski’s contractual obligations with the SUNS and his role as a development coach.
Tigers senior coach Aaron Shattock today confirmed that the former St Kilda, Sydney and Western Bulldog great Hall, has agreed to a minimum of five games with the Tigers in the upcoming 2017 season.
“He’s got other commitments outside footy, but he can definitely commit to 5,” said Shattock.
According to the Tigers coach, Hall could play as many as 7 games in the deal and helps offset some of the loss felt at the departure of forward Josh Baxter.
At this stage it seems likely the Labrador’s coach will play Hall out of the goal square as a traditional full forward.
“I wouldn’t have thought we’d play him at full back,” said Shattock.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 02: Barry Hall of Victoria kicks the ball during the 2016 EJ Whitten Legends Game between Victoria and the All Stars at Etihad Stadium on September 02, 2016 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Media)
Hall has made a big impression in his short time at the club and the younger players in particular have loved having him on the track.
In incredible physical condition for a 40 year old, Hall also brings invaluable leadership to the club as a former premiership captain. Shattock, a former premiership player himself, described Hall as a ‘born leader.’
“It’s fantastic we have ex AFL players wanting to play in the QAFL, helping to showcase the competition,” said QAFL Competition and Club Development Manager Christopher Davis.
The reigning premiers lineup now looks even more formidable, after adding the likes of Hall, who bagged 746 goals in 289 AFL games, to an already strong list going into the 2017 season.
Labrador plays their first game against Surfers Paradise at Sir Bruce Small Park on the 23rd of April.
By Sean Melrose.
Twitter: @seanmelrose
