The Tigers have signed two-time club premiership star Daniel Sturzaker for the 2019 season.

Sturzaker was a rising star during the club’s dominance of the Western Border league in the early-to-mid 2000s.

The 30-year-old key position player also helped Modewarre win last season’s Bellarine league flag.

Coach Tom Sharp said his experience would be invaluable.

“We have a really young side coming through at the moment and although talented, the lads are inexperienced and only a sparse minority know what it takes to win a flag,” he said.

“’Sturzi’ has a wealth of experience and a few premiership medals under his belt.

“So his experience and leadership will be vital in building a culture of excellence and long-term success.”

Sturzaker is Portland’s second key recruit along with former West Adelaide defender Jake Wilson.

Sharp said despite signing the duo his expectations for the Tigers remained the same.

“The same thing as I’d expect without the recruits,” he said.

“That is a unified group striving to get the absolute most out of each other.

“With buy-in from everyone, I expect 2019 be the first step in our campaign to be the premier side in Hampden.”

Portland started its pre-season campaign on Monday night and will train through until December 21.