Werribee has filled its two remaining list spots and finalised its squad for the commencement of the Smithy’s VFL season with the signings of ruckman Akol Deng and defender Charlie Byrne.

Deng, 24, is a recent convert to Australian Rules football from a professional basketball background and spent last season with the club as a train-on player.

He plied his trade with Yarraville Seddon in the WRFL where he frequently appeared in the best players.

Despite standing at 194cm Werribee football manager Mark Micallef said Deng brings strength, physicality, and great athleticism.

 “We’ve been working in the background with Akol for the last 18 months… he’s one of the most exciting stories for the footy club over the last couple of years,” Micallef said.

Joining Deng on the list for 2023 is 184cm rebounding defender Charlie Byrne.

Byrne, 20, was previously involved with Essendon’s VFL program and played two games for the Bombers in 2021 before relocating to Geelong to play with Newtown and Chilwell.

Micallef said the dashing left footer has come a long way in the last 12 months.

“We’ve kept tabs on Charlie ever since his final season in the NAB League with the Murray Bushrangers,” he said.

“His move to the GFL brought him within close proximity to Werribee and we were thrilled to see him play some really good footy for Newtown and Chilwell last year.”

By Gerald Lynch