TACKLING machine Jordie McKenzie is relishing the prospect of suiting up alongside his brother in Terang Mortlake colours.
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The former Melbourne midfielder re-committed to the Bloods last week, admitting the lure of returning home to play alongside his brother, Tom, and lifelong friends was too strong.
McKenzie was drafted to Melbourne with the first selection in the 2009 rookie draft, producing 79 games as a run-with midfielder in a struggling Demons side.
He was delisted in 2015, crossing to South Australian National Football League force North Adelaide to claim the club’s best-and-fairest award in his first season.
“At some stage, I was always going to head back to the Bloods. I’ve got a lot of good friends there and I haven’t had the chance to play with my brother a lot,” the 27-year-old said.
“In juniors we had three years between us and haven’t played much. Luckily enough, the 2008 premiership was one of them.
“There are still a few premiership teammates kicking around and even with Sarge (Michael Sargeant) at the helm, it was too good to pass up.”
The big-bodied midfielder said he would embrace any role handed down from the Bloods’ coaching panel.
He hoped the experience of working under different coaches and philosophies at Melbourne meant he could provide support and advice to younger teammates.
“I’ve soaked up a lot of information from all my coaches and teammates at a high level,” he said.