Tara Murray
Werribee has announced the re-signings of three of its most important players for next year’s Victorian Football League season.
Star defender Louis Pinnuck, leading goalkicker Hudson Garoni and Norm Goss Medallist Jack Henderson have all put pen to paper.
Pinnuck, who received life membership at the club recently, returns for his ninth season at the club.
The ever-reliable defender brought up his 100th game earlier this year in round 16 against Coburg.
Playing in 20 games Pinnuck led the competition in total marks, earned selection in the VFL representative team as the Big V returned to state of origin footy, finished in the top five for Werribee’s best-and-fairest and capped it all off with premiership success.
Pinnuck said he absolutely loved the club and it was an easy decision to re-sign.
“We had an unbelievable year just gone and there was no way that I wouldn’t go round again,” he said.
“I know all of the boys are super keen to get stuck in again and give it another crack.”
Garoni returns after winning a third straight club leading goalkicking award.
Garoni, who brought up his 50th VFL game earlier this season, has played all but two games over the past four campaigns.
This year, he appeared in all 21 matches, setting a new career-best tally with 49 goals and earning selection in his second consecutive VFL team of the year 40-man squad.
Football Manager Ash Collins spoke of his delight to have Garoni going around for another season in the black and gold.
“Hudson’s top-three finish in the Frosty Miller Medal count shows his elite talent and impact as a focal point in our forward line,” he said.
“We’re really excited to have him back in the fold to lead from the front half of the ground again in 2025.”
Henderson will return for an eighth season with the club.
The Norm Goss Medalist, who joined Werribee ahead of the 2018 season, has been a mainstay in the lineup, playing 106 of a possible 107 games since his debut.
The 25-year-old played in all 21 games this season.
In a year filled with accolades, Henderson earned his second selection to the VFL team of the year, represented the VFL in the state clash against the SANFL, and was awarded Werribee life membership upon reaching the milestone of 100 games against the Northern Bullants in round 17.
As well as claiming best on ground honours on grand final day, he finished second in the club’s best and fairest.
