The Seagulls will assist the former North Ballarat Roosters rookie through rehabilitation after a knee reconstruction with a view to him making a full-scale return to the VFL in 2019.

Buckwell reached an agreement with the VFL powerhouse after an approach by coach Andy Collins.

He said Collins offered to assist him with his recovery with a view to giving him another chance in the VFL given the demise of the Roosters.

The 23-year-old from Lake Wendouree joined North Ballarat this year after representing the Ballarat Football League last year.

His ruptured his right ACL in just his 12^th VFL game at the end of July with just four home and away rounds remaining.

Buckwell, who has agreed to retain the Lakers as his home club, said he was not yet running.

He said rehabilitation was restricted to gym work, swimming and cycling.

He believes that if his rehabilitation went to plan he might be fit enough to make a return in later June in readiness for finals.

Buckwell said he had learnt an enormous amount on and off the field in his season with the Roosters and was eager to continue the development.

“I’d like to build on it.”

He said he was appreciative of the opportunity Collins was giving him to stay in the competition after North Ballarat had been forced out of the VFL.