By Lance Jenkinson
Werribee has landed son-of-a-gun Jackson Edwards as it builds its list for the 2019 Victorian Football League season.
Edwards, the son of Adelaide Crows 300-gamer and dual premiership midfielder Tyson, has made the move to Watton Street to boost his chances of returning to the AFL system.
The rookie-listed Edwards was delisted by the Crows at the end of last season and decided to rejuvenate his career in Victoria.
The 19-year-old is excited by the chance to work under new Werribee senior coach Mark Williams, who he has known since his junior days.
“I think Werribee has the best people in place to help me get back to the top level, especially in ‘Choco’ Williams,” Edwards said.
“He coached me a little in primary school, so I’ve got that relationship. I just think the elite facilities and high-performance coaches here are going to help me take the next step.”
Edwards was taken by Adelaide with pick 41 in the 2017 rookie draft. He was unable to secure a start with the senior team for Adelaide, but managed 14 SANFL games in the hoops to go with his four for Glenelg in 2017.
Werribee will be getting an inside midfielder in Edwards, one that makes good decisions in traffic and is able to deliver with precision by foot.
Werribee football operations manager Stuart Balloch is impressed by Edwards’ dedication.
“Anyone who’s prepared to pack up their life at 19 and move away from their family and support network to pursue something they want has a high level of determination,” he said.
“Jackson has shown that initiative to challenge himself and has picked our club as a stand-alone VFL side as the place to give him more opportunities.
“We’re really glad he sees this as the best place for him to try to have another crack at AFL footy.”
Werribee has also brought in key position player Timm House.
House, who can play at either end of the ground, was delisted by Geelong at the end of last season.
The 23-year-old was disappointed not to have his contract renewed by Geelong, but is looking forward to a fresh start at Werribee.
“There have been some mixed feelings, but I’m now quite excited about next year and looking forward to playing some more VFL footy at Werribee,” House said.
“I quite enjoy the level of professionalism in the VFL, so I thought I may as well keep playing the highest level of footy I can.”
House was in the Geelong system for three years, playing 44 VFL games and kicking 26 goals. House could be a ready-made replacement for Sam Collins, who has made the move to the Gold Coast Suns.
