Headlining this is 2012 premiership player and former club best-and-fairest Tom Sullivan, back at the Kennel for the first time since 2022.
Sullivan last played in 2023 for Northern Football League power Heidelberg, and is set to bring some much-needed experience back into the fold after previously playing 133 games for the club.
The club legend isn’t the only one making his way to Tatura Park.
Tungamah coach and Mulwala and Strathfieldsaye flag winner Sean Johns is bringing his expertise to Tatura after leading the Bears to Picola and District Football League finals three seasons running.
Rounding out the trio is Merrigum’s Darcy Collins, who booted 34 goals for the Kyabram District League club this season.
A focus on leadership and experience has newly appointed Tatura coach Andrew Ciavarella feeling positive ahead of the pre-season.
“They'll bring in a lot of experience,” he said.
“That’s probably the main thing that we need currently is just trying to set set some higher standards and bring in some leadership.
“On-field, I guess some of our younger boys can feel a little bit more confident.”
Ciavarella said the response from the community and some ex-players has been pleasing as the Bulldogs’ rebuild continues.
“The response has been perfect from, especially a lot of our ex-locals, so hopefully we’ve got a few more up the sleeve to come out over the next couple of weeks,” he said.
“But we're realistic; we're coming from a fair way behind, so we can't count our chickens before they hatch.
“We need to keep the ball moving, we've got a little bit of traction, and the current group has all pretty much recommitted as well.
“I think we can get a lot of growth out of our young group.”
Benalla has also gone to work preparing for 26, welcoming Williamstown VFL talent Toby Triffett to the line-up.
Gun ruckman Mark Marriott has also pledged himself to the Saints for next season.
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