Rix will play for Merrivale, which finished third on the Warrnambool and District league ladder this season, in 2022.

"I've been with Collegians for six or seven years and just wanted a change and a fresh start and reckon Merrivale is chasing team success and I thought I'd jump on and help," the 28-year-old said.

"It was a hard decision to make as I'm good mates and have mates for life there so it was a real hard decision but at the end of the day they're happy for me go do what I want to do.

"I've known (coach) Josh (Sobey) a while now, we got along well and he is a nice fella.

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"I've pretty much spoken to Merrivale the last couple of years and felt it wasn't the right time as Collegians were going alright and I had unfinished business there.

"Now the stars have aligned and it was the right time to go."

Rix has been a staple of the Warriors' midfield for the past seven seasons, playing in the club's three grand final defeats from 2016-18.

The right-footer has also proven to be handy in front of goals, kicking 102 majors over the past four seasons.

Sobey said it was exciting to get a player of Rix's calibre in his squad for next season.

"Super excited to have him come over for next season and it puts a positive spin on what was a disappointing end to the season," he said.

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"I have known Colby for a long time and we have had some pretty good battles over the time and he will complement our side's midfield.

"He has great ability to hit the scoreboard too and is a perfect fit for what we need. It is good to get the ball rolling for next year.

"He really understands the direction we are going and what we're trying to achieve. We complement him and him us. We want to get him playing good footy again as he can complement us hugely."

Sobey said he was looking to add experienced senior players like Rix to his side.

He said the club hoped to have its presentation night soon and then his focus would turn to 2022.

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