SOUTH Warrnambool coach Mathew Buck says reliable defender Kym Eagleson’s commitment to the red and white cause can’t be questioned.
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Eagleson will continue to line up for the Hampden league finals aspirant despite shifting interstate.
“He’s recently moved to South Australia due to work commitments,” Buck said.
“There was not a conversation about whether he’d play football for South Warrnambool or not.
“He loves South Warrnambool and that’s where he’ll play his footy.”
The key position Eagleson will play his 100th senior game for the Roosters against Hamilton Kangaroos at Melville Oval in the league’s inaugural Pride Game on Saturday night.
He will share the milestone with goalkicking midfielder Sam Thompson, who returned to the club this season after a stint overseas.
Buck said both players emodied the South Warrnambool spirit.
“Dozer (Eagleson) has stuck around. He’s been there for a while and in the hard times and he puts a lot of time into helping the junior players who are now playing good senior footy,” he said.
“He’s leadership is really good and his ability to intercept mark and set up our structures.
“He’s really developed his game over the last couple of years too.
“He’s taking the game on and quick with his ball use.”
Buck said the Port Campbell-based Thompson’s laid-back nature belied his fierce competiveness.
The second-year coach watched Thompson and played against him during his time at North Warrnambool Eagles and Koroit and rated him.
But he’s developed a deeper appreciation for his skills watching him week in, week out.
“He’s an excellent trainer but he steps it up on game day,” Buck said.
“His intensity shows he can play at a high level.”
Thompson’s older brother Nick is also an accomplished South Warrnambool midfielder.
“He’s a bit like his brother – he’s a good ball user but kicks more goals than Nick,” Buck said.