Recently-delisted Brisbane midfielder Ely Smith has joined an array of ex-AFL talent at SANFL club South Adelaide for 2023.
The former first-round selection heads to South Australia and links up with the likes of Bryce Gibbs, Matthew Broadbent, Keegan Brooksby, Oscar Brownless, Oscar Clavarino, Ryan Garthwaite and fellow off-season recruit Zach Sproule at the Panthers.
Smith was drafted to Brisbane with the 21st selection of the 2018 National Draft, but failed to break into the Queensland club's AFL side in his four years in the top flight.
The 22-year-old was a key piece in his club's strong VFL campaign this year, averaging 20.1 disposals, 3 clearances, 3.4 marks and 3.8 inside 50s per game.
Speaking to the club's media team, Smith expressed his delight to join South Adelaide for next season.
"I'm looking forward to playing a full season of football and forming great relationships with my team mates and really enjoy where I am," the Yarrawonga product said.
"I think I can add a bigger body who can win clearances and provide the ball to the outside players.
"Getting through the whole year injury free, playing the best footy I possibly can and getting some success with the team are my key goals for the year.
"One of the things I noticed was how welcoming everyone at the club was including coaching staff, management staff and players.ย It just felt right."
South Adelaide recorded a sixth place finish in 2022, managing nine wins and nine losses for the season.
