Foster Gardiner is set to become the second Gardiner brother to debut for Werribee in as many weeks, named to play his first VFL game against North Melbourne this Saturday.

The 20-year-old forward earned elevation to the club’s development list ahead of this week’s Round 11 clash.

He becomes the fourth North Albury product to represent Werribee this season, joining Dom Brew, Sam Azzi, and twin brother Archer Gardiner, who debuted last week. It continues the strong connection between Werribee and the Ovens and Murray Football League, a pathway that has also produced AFL draftees Aidan Johnson, Riley Bice and Shaun Mannagh.

Gardiner will be Werribee’s 15th debutant of the 2025 season, and third in three weeks.

His selection comes on the back of strong form with North Albury, named in the best players five times from seven games and coming off a standout 25-disposal, two-goal performance last Saturday.

Gardiner earned a train-on spot with the club after impressing in the 2025 pre-season trial period, his second chance at Werribee after also trialling at the end of 2023.

Foster Gardiner comes to Werribee with Coates Talent League and senior football experience. After playing for the Murray Bushrangers in 2022, he made the transition to senior football in 2023 and was named deputy vice captain in North Albury’s leadership group in his first full season out of the Talent League. Known for his courage and selflessness, he claimed North Albury’s Most Courageous Player award in 2023, before being named Most Selfless in 2024. He also held the Ovens and Murray single-game tackle record during his 2024 campaign.

Foster is joined in the side by Ben Kellett, with the young ruckman making his first appearance for the club since Round 1’s Grand Final rematch in Southport. They replace youngster Brady Wright and Archer Gardiner.

Saturday’s North Melbourne clash will be Werribee’s first home game since Round 7.

With the Western Football Netball League and several other local competitions on a bye for the King’s Birthday weekend, fans are encouraged to wear their local club colours to receive free entry to the match.