After three years away from the Ballarat Football League, the 2008 premiership hero will once again run out alongside some of his best friends for Ballarat today against Melton South.

One of a number of former Swans players returning to the Alfredton Oval nest for 2014, McGregor is eyeing off finishing his career in Ballarat colours.

But not for a few years yet.

Having spent three years playing for St Mary’s in the Geelong Football League, McGregor says the decision to bring his game back to Ballarat was easy once he saw a string of former teammates heading back home.

“I suppose a lot of the guys I’m good mates with like Nigel Otto, David O’Neill, Joe Otto, these guys were probably in my ear a bit, but it didn’t take much convincing,” McGregor said.

The 2010 Victorian Country Football League representative joins a number of fellow 2008 premiership players returning to the fold this year, including Shane Hutchinson, Adam Sewell and Tristan May.

“It was a bit of a snowball effect, once a couple of guys jumped on board then everyone else sort of followed suit,” McGregor said.

“I had always thought about it. I always had great times at the footy club and would love to finish my career there.

“I think I’ve played 75 games for Ballarat (starting in 2006) and would love to get it to 100. 

“I’ve always been very fond of the Ballarat Football Club.”

Coming back from a dislocated knee sustained in round 17, McGregor said his body was unusually fresh for this time of year, having had a lighter pre-season than usual due to running restrictions.

He said the solid rain throughout the week had made him feel more comfortable for his comeback game.

“It’s my first game back so I’m pretty keen just to get through it at this stage,” McGregor said.

“The rain is probably actually a good thing, it will have made the ground a bit softer and more forgiving.”

Ballarat will clash with Melton South in its season opener at Alfredton Oval today.

patrick.nolan@fairfaxmedia.com.au