THE Lions have snagged a Tiger.
Sunbury has boosted its Ballarat Football League premiership defence, signing former Coburg midfielder Andrew Duhua.
The 21-year-old former Calder Cannon player has played 16 senior games with the Tigers, but struggled this year in the VFL with a groin injury.
“I think he’ll slot into our midfield quite easily and will be a very good footballer for us at this level,” Sunbury coach Rick Horwood said.
“He is quite skilful and very level headed for his age. I think he’ll be a great leader for our younger guys. We’ve already seen that at training.
“I’ve also spoken with (BFL interleague coach) Ben Jordan about his desire to play representative football, if his form warrants it.”
The Lions have also managed to hold on to skipper Jay Cheep who appeared a chance to move on this season.
Cheep had fielded numerous offers from Essendon and District Football League and VAFA division one clubs.
It means the only major departure is grand final hero Simon Clarke, who has returned to his old VAFA club St Bernards.
Clarke’s departure leaves the Lions still searching for a back-up big man to support Pat Cariss.
Sunbury’s newest off-field signing, meanwhile, is federal opposition leader Tony Abbott, who was a guest yesterday at the club’s Clarke Oval home. The Lions presented Abbott with a football jumper and honourary membership.
gavin.mcgrath@fairfaxmedia.com.au