Nirranda has picked up an experienced Hampden league midfielder to help cover the loss of a couple of its star onballers.
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Terang Mortlake's Sam McLean has joined the Blues for the 2020 Warrnambool and District league season.
Coach Brayden Harkness said it was great to add to his side's midfield depth.
"We lost Isaac Templeton, he was a big part of our midfield leadership," he said.
"Sam will help to replace that and also bring along a few other guys who might not have played in our midfield the last few years.
"John Paulin and Daniel Craven have been proven performers over a long period.
"James Willsher and Dylan Lees will step up and play a bit more midfield this year."
McLean played 12 matches for the Bloods in the Hampden league last year.
He said family and friends helped draw him to the Blues.
"My brother played here last season and I have a couple of mates that still play here who played at Terang in juniors," he said.
"So it'll be nice to come and have a kick with them again."
The 24-year-old is keen to contribute to one of the league's best teams of the past five years.
"Hopefully I can bring some drive and intensity around the footy and give us first use of the footy more times than not," he said.
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Meanwhile, the Blues have replaced one forward with another.
Harkness said Gary Robinson had retired after a successful career at numerous clubs.
South Warrnambool youngster Josh Folkes, who played in an under 18.5 premiership last season, has returned to the Blues for 2020.
The 19-year-old won the league goal-kicking award last year with 48 majors.
"We're really pleased to get someone of his calibre," Harkness said.
Family ties have also drawn the forward pocket back to the club. His sister plays netball for the Blues.
Friendships also helped the cause.
"They're real good lads to play with and it's a good community," he said.
Harkness thanked Robinson for his contribution to the team.
"He was a huge asset for us over four years, he played a huge role in two premierships," he said.
"He was immense, but him leaving opens up opportunity for others."
Harkness is looking forward to seeing how the Blues shape up with a different forward line.
"Hopefully others will step up in his absence," he said.
McLean and Folkes are both optimistic about the Blues' chances this season.
"If we don't get too many injuries and keep working hard and get to training, I think we won't be far away," McLean said.
"With no injuries, I reckon we're not far off at all, we'll still be strong," Folkes added.
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