Former Port Adelaide defender Joel Garner has signed with Footscray for the 2022 VFL season.
Garner, who played four matches for the Power across four years at Alberton Oval, was not offered a new contract for next season, concluding his stay in South Australia.
The 22-year-old has since returned to Victoria, joining the Bulldogs and his junior club Wandin in the top division of the Outer East Football League, sharing his next season between the two clubs.
"It is great pleasure that we get to introduce you to our latest signing Joel Garner," a Wandin Football Club post reads.
"Most of those at the football club have tracked with great interest Joel's journey through the AFL system and whilst we are disappointed that he is no longer at Port Adelaide we are wrapped that he has chosen to be with us through 2022 when not with the Western Bulldogs at VFL level.
https://www.facebook.com/wandinbulldogs/photos/a.1586200741638438/3080443928880771
"His commitment to both the junior and senior clubs whenever he has been back in Melbourne has always been A1. He has spoken consistently of his desire to wear our senior Jumper and his willingness to do so when ever schedules make him available in 2022 delights us.
"A leader from a young age, he makes us better both on-field and off with an ability to play through all areas of the ground making him a perfect fit when returning from VFL."
Footscray managed an undefeated run to begin the 2021 VFL season prior to the campaign's abrupt conclusion due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stewart Edge's side are primed for another string premiership tilt next season, which is set to begin in late March.
Meanwhile, Frankston are understood to have swooped on delisted Kangaroos midfielder Will Walker for next season.
According toย News Corp'sย Paul Amy, Walker is set to link up with the Dolphins in 2022, after the 22-year-old was not offered a new deal at Arden Street.
Another top signing for VFL club Frankston, with Will Walker joining the Dollies. Coming off a stint at North Melbourne, where he played six AFL games.
— Paul Amy (@PaulAmy375) December 13, 2021
Walker played six games for North Melbourne across four years with the club, with his last AFL appearance coming in Round 6 last year against the Lions.
The Sandringham Dragons product averaged 10.8 possessions, 2.7 tackles and 2.7 marks across his career.
Walker joins ex-teammate Tom Murphy, former Dockers defender Taylin Duman and ex-Swan Ryley Stoddart in having joined the Dolphins this off-season.
