VFL-experienced Matt Johnston has switched his Ballarat Football League allegiance and will line-up with East Point next season.
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He makes the move from North Ballarat City, which was his home club during two seasons with the North Ballarat Roosters.
Johnston moved through junior ranks at the Northern Oval before playing with the North Ballarat Rebels in the TAC Cup and then the Roosters.
He is among the first players from the disbanded Roosters’ list to commit to a BFL club on a full-time basis for 2018.
Jake McQueen will also retain his ties to East Point, although there is still a possibility he will look to continue his VFL career as many ex-Roosters are choosing to do.
Johnston played 10 VFL games in 2016 and nine this year after representing Vic Country in the national under-18 championships in 2015.
East Point’s Gary Wilson said the Kangaroos had selected Johnston as a key target in their recruiting campaign.
He said the 21-year-old was an exciting type who had developed in his time in the VFL.
Johnston was known at the Roosters for his physical strength, which was highlighted by his tackling ability, and clean ball-handling as an inside midfielder.
While Johnston joins an emerging young list under second-year coach Jake Bridges, East Point’s elder statesman Paul Koderenko has re-resigned to continue his stellar career.
Korderenko had another fine year, being selected in the BFL team of the year and winning East Point’s best and fairest.
He also celebrated his 200th game with the Kangaroos.
East Point missed the finals by percentage this season with wins and two draws.