UPDATE: The Wodonga Raiders have secured Julian Callegari, a highly-rated midfielder from Essendon Doutta Stars, delivering a crucial boost ahead of the upcoming Ovens and Murray season. This significant signing, announced just hours ago, brings excitement and hope to a team that had a winless season last year.
Callegari, 24, comes off a standout 2024 campaign where he finished in the top three of his club’s best and fairest count. However, a cloud of uncertainty looms over his availability as he has also recently signed with the Sydney Swans for their VFL program. The potential impact of this dual commitment could significantly influence how many matches he plays for the Raiders this season.
While Raiders coach Chad Owens is currently overseas and unavailable for comment, Brad Smith, the club’s football operations manager, expressed enthusiasm about Callegari’s arrival. “Julian has a good reputation in the EDFL. He’s young, and his best football is still ahead of him,” Smith stated. He added that discussions regarding Callegari’s contract were primarily handled by Owens and club legend Stephen Clarke, underscoring the importance of their roles in securing this prized recruit.
Smith confirmed that Callegari is relocating to Sydney ahead of the new season, raising questions about how often Raiders fans can expect to see him on the field. “We are excited to sign a player of Julian’s caliber and look forward to welcoming him to the club when he is available,” Smith said.
The Raiders, who have struggled in recent years with just five wins in the past four seasons, are banking on Callegari to help turn their fortunes around after a brutal post-COVID era. They are also bringing back siblings Hayden and Nathan Clarke to bolster the squad. Recently, Ryan Bonham (from Cardiff), Spencer Jones (from Albury), and James Georgalis (from Norwood) have joined the team, signaling a renewed commitment to improving performance.
However, the Raiders face challenges with notable departures, including skipper Brad St John and rising star Mitch Way, who have moved to Culcairn. High-profile VFL recruits Corey Rich and Will Fordham have also left the club after only one season.
As the Raiders prepare for the season, the focus will be on integrating Callegari into the squad while navigating the complexities of his VFL commitments. Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how this pivotal signing plays out, and how it will shape the team’s prospects in the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and as the Raiders gear up for what promises to be an intriguing 2024 season.
