BREAKING: Former AFL player Quinton Narkle has officially signed with Broadford Football Club for their upcoming season in the Bendigo Football Netball League, marking a significant move following his recent retirement from professional football. This announcement comes just days after Narkle concluded his AFL career, during which he played 59 games across three clubs: Geelong (41 games), Port Adelaide (16), and Fremantle (2).
At just 27 years old, Narkle is set to play 10 games for Broadford next year, as the club embarks on its first season in the league after a two-season hiatus. Broadford coach Nathan Thompson expressed enthusiasm about Narkle’s arrival, stating, “Quinton fits perfectly with what we’re trying to do as a club, needing an elite midfielder for this competition.”
Narkle, who has been living in the Northern Territory, sought a club that would allow him to balance family visits and competitive play. Thompson noted, “He is playing in the Northern Territory league now, so he will transition straight into the Bendigo league season without losing fitness.”
This offseason, Narkle becomes the second player to join a BFNL club directly from an AFL list, a move that underscores the growing competitive spirit in the league. Narkle’s impressive career included two preliminary finals with Geelong in 2019 and with Port Adelaide in 2024, but he has expressed gratitude for his time in the AFL, stating in August, “I feel so lucky that I got to be a part of strong clubs with winning cultures.”
Thompson remains optimistic about Narkle’s impact on the team, emphasizing the importance of not placing excessive pressure on him: “We want him to concentrate on being the best he can be and enjoy the club and environment.”
As Broadford prepares for the season ahead, the community eagerly anticipates Narkle’s contributions on the field. This signing not only revitalizes Broadford’s squad but also signals a commitment to competitive play in the Bendigo league.
Stay tuned for further updates as the season approaches and Narkle gears up for his debut with Broadford.
