Recently delisted Hawthorn player Alex Woodward, has signed for Collingwood's VFL side, as he begins his path toย resurrecting his AFL career.
The luckless 23-year-old was delisted by the Hawks at the end of this season, after two senior games and three knee reconstructions in five seasons at the club.
Recognise the face? It's ex-Hawk Alex Woodward - https://t.co/7mejVrn0IR The talented mid has signed to be a VFL Magpie in 2017 #gopies pic.twitter.com/m7n1c7rrt6
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) December 8, 2016
While his ultimate goal is earn a spot on an AFL list in 2018, Woodward says he is focused on team success with the Pies next season.
โThe culture is really good here and the program is first class," Woodward told the Magpies' website.
"AFL is obviously a goal, but team success comes first I think.
โI just want to get back to basics in terms of getting some consistent footy out and enjoying my footy again.โ
Collingwood VFL general manager, Luke Gatti said the club is delighted to secure Woodward's services, but also hope to help him return to the elite level.
โWeโre looking to support Alex in his recovery and road back from the knee injuries heโs suffered over his journey,โ Gattiย said.
โHopefully itโll only be a quick bounce for him here at Collingwood, at the VFL level at the very least, and he finds himself back in the AFL in 2018.โ
Woodward was overlooked in the recent rookie draft, however, his talent is unquestionable, winning the 2013 JJ Liston trophy for the VFL's best and fairest in 2013, despite only playing 13 games.
