After Charlie Parker's days as a Bulldog came to a close after he was informed a contract renewal wasn't on the cards, the South Australian utility has linked up with his former club Sturt, who have jumped at the opportunity to sign the 25-year-old.
With his time at the Kennel short-lived, the lessons learnt will be brought across to the suburb of Unley in joining ex-teammates, where he spent most of his time plying his trade in the formative years.
“Charlie Parker returns to the Club after being drafted at pick 17 in the AFL 2021 Rookie Draft to the Western Bulldogs,” a club statement reads.
“A penetrating kick and impressive combination of high-end speed and endurance, Parker is a supporter's dream. May will remember the day he ran down Jason Horne-Francis on the western wing of Unley Oval and then took off in the other direction toward goal with Horne-Francis wondering what had just happened.”
The Double Blues will welcome back Parker with open arms, acquiring his services for season 2023 and hoping to improve on extending their September action after being knocked out in the elimination final this year.
Parker featured in the opening eight games for his Footscray VFL side, managing 12 disposals on average whilst hitting the scoreboard with three majors, before suffering a hamstring injury that ruled him out for the remainder.
More midfield time is expected for Parker at Sturt, joining Casey Voss, son of Michael Voss, in the engine room where the pair can resume roles working alongside each other.