Big signing … Former AFL player Trent Croad will take to the field for Keilor Park this year. 60148
By Luke D’Anello
KEILOR Park has landed the recruiting coup of the off season, securing Hawthorn premiership defender Trent Croad for 2011.
Croad, who is overseas, made his decision official last Monday.
The 30-year-old played 222 AFL games for the Hawks and Fremantle and is likely to miss the opening two matches of his team’s Essendon District Football League (EDFL) B Grade campaign.
Croad’s career in the elite competition was cut short because of a broken foot suffered in the 2008 Grand Final against Geelong.
He remained on the Hawks’ list in 2009, but did not take to the field before announcing his retirement in January last year.
Croad’s close friendship with another Devils’ recruit, full forward Murray Silver, was a key factor in his decision, according to Keilor Park coach Leigh Coles.
The club first spoke to Croad before Christmas about a move to Keilor Park Reserve.
“Basically, Trent was keen to have another year playing with Murray. They played a lot of footy together when they were younger,” Coles said.
“They also work together. It’s a good signing for the club.
“We sort of planted the seed (before Christmas), then after that we had some more discussion, and he’s on board and happy to play for us.
“He’s going to miss a couple (of games) at the start of the year. But after that he’s available for the whole year. He’s got a few business interests and he’s overseas at the moment.
“We’re very excited by it.”
Those who met with the tall defender included club president Adam Papal, football manager Dom Corsino and Coles.
“Dom was very pivotal in actually getting the actual signing,” Coles said.
Coles said there is a “buzz” at the club now Croad’s signature was ratified.
“There were whispers about it (within the club), but we didn’t announce it until we actually had his contact in our hand, signed and done.
“I announced it last night (Monday) and the buzz around the club is great.”
When asked what position Croad is likely to play, Coles said: “Wherever he wants”.
“He’ll probably play forward. But we’re happy with Trent and wherever he wants to play, I’m sure we’ll accommodate that.”
Coles said the news was “great for the EDFL in general”.
“You see a lot of big signings go to A Grade, but to have a signing like that in B Grade … we’re pretty happy.”
The addition of Croad puts the exclamation mark on a bumper off-season of recruiting for the Devils.
As reported in last week’s Star, they have also gained the services of Silver from St Kilda City and ex-Riddell trio Jason and Brayden Allen and Justin Belleville.
