THE opportunity to play in familiar territory has lured South Warrnambool recruit Izaac Dwyer back to Friendly Societies’ Park.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Dwyer, 20, will don Roosters colours in 2015 after committing to the Hampden league club following stints in Queensland and Geelong.
The midfielder, who also has senior experience at Port Fairy, said he wanted to help South Warrnambool capitalise on its talent-laden but young list and push for a finals spot under returning coach Nigel Kol.
“There are a couple of familiar faces back here and I have never won a premiership before,” Dwyer said.
“A premiership is a big attraction to me and the loyalty and all my mates are here.
“At training the other night they all looked pretty sharp and were here early so they’re keen to get back into it.
“Nigel’s got a good record so hopefully we’ll be up there.”
Dwyer, who marked his boxing debut with a Victorian novice and intermediate amateur 75-kilogram title in 2012, has moved back to the south-west after playing for Geelong West-St Peters in 2014.
He is working for Brian and Cathy McCosh at their Panmure farm.
Football training will be juggled around his 6am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm weeknight shifts.
“The flexibility Nigel was willing to give me is another attraction,” Dwyer said.
“I can’t wait to get back into it already.
“I think my attack on the footy has come on in leaps and bounds so that is something I am happy with and my skills.”
Kol said South Warrnambool was rapt to have Dwyer back at the club.
The 2011 Roosters premiership mentor praised Dwyer’s skill level and expects him to add another dimension to their midfield.
“His value will be on the ground rather than training but if we can get him there more often than not it’ll be great and it’s going to help him and help develop his leadership in the group,” Kol said.
“At the end of the day, we’re just happy to have him.
“All of our midfielders will rotate half-back, half-forward as well so they’ll all get a bit of a rest.
“I envisage that Izaac’s going to be amongst it with the Thompsons (Nick and Sam) onball.”
South Warrnambool’s pre-season campaign is in full swing.
The Roosters, whose only confirmed departure at this stage is South Rovers-bound Harry Ponting, are training twice a week in the lead-up to Christmas.
“We’ve just done a cross-section of skills, running and boxing and strength,” Kol said.
“Myself, Damian Thornton and Scotty Maddern have been doing that and it’s been really good.”
Kol encouraged anyone interested in pre-season training to attend the Roosters’ sessions on Monday or Wednesday nights at Friendly Societies’ Park from 6pm.
