Reigning Norm Goss Medallist Werribee’s Jack Henderson has realised his AFL dream, joining Melbourne Football Club through the AFL’s Supplemental Selection Period (SSP).

Henderson had been training in Western Australia with West Coast but officially signed with the Demons on Tuesday in a pre-season SSP twist.

Melbourne recruited the 25-year-old midfielder after a list spot opened due to forward Shane McAdam’s season-ending achilles injury.

His signing continues Werribee’s strong draft record, enhancing the club’s reputation as a standout development program. Henderson’s recruitment along with Riley Bice (Swans) and Aidan Johnson (Melbourne) makes 2024 the most successful VFL off-season for any standalone club since 2018.

Henderson also extends the Werribee-Melbourne connection, linking up with 2024 premiership teammate Aidan Johnson and former Werribee coach Mark ‘Choco’ Williams, now Melbourne’s Head of Development.

Henderson played all 21 games in 2024, marking the fifth time he has completed a full VFL season in his seven-year career. In a year filled with accolades he earned a second VFL Team of the Year selection, represented the VFL in the state clash against the SANFL and was awarded Werribee Football Club Life Membership after reaching the 100-game milestone.

Henderson signed with Werribee in 2018 from the Geelong Falcons and quickly caught the attention of coach John Lamont, who praised the young gun in pre-season: "He’s a good kick, has good speed, and finished in the [Falcons] top 10 in the best and fairest in a premiership year, so we think he can have a positive impact in 2018.”

In his first season Henderson certainly made an impact, playing all 18 games as a lockdown defender and earning Werribee’s Best First-Year Player award while taking on AFL talents like Gryan Miers and Shai Bolton.

Speaking on radio following Henderson’s invitation to train with Melbourne last week, Werribee’s senior coach Jimmy Allan praised the midfielder’s approach; “With Hendo it wasn’t a matter of I need to go out and put on a show to get drafted. He just did what he did every week and did whatever we asked of him,” he said. “I think that’s what AFL clubs are looking for. They’re looking for guys who can play roles and fit into different systems. Jack will do that whether he gets an opportunity to play in the midfield, forward or down back.”

Werribee CEO Mark Penaluna echoed Allan's praise for Henderson; "From our point of view, we’re in unison about the quality of the person he is, the humble manner in which he goes about things, and his work ethic—he's an incredible, selfless person on and off the field.

He added, "We couldn’t be prouder. We’ve believed in him for a few years, and it’s great to see the recognition he and the Werribee Football Club deserve."

Following our recent 2024 VFL Premiership success, the Werribee Football Club is excited to announce that our full suite of membership packages are now available for 2025.

2024 will forever be remembered for the drought-breaking Premiership, and in 2025... WE’RE GOING AGAIN. ARE YOU?

Sign up as a member for 2025 via this link.

The Werribee Football Club would like to thank Ash for his valuable contribution to the club in his role as Football Manager over the past year. Ash was part of our off-field premiership team for 2024 but has decided to pursue other football opportunities.

We wish Ash the best of luck for the future.

The search for a new Football Manager is already underway. We will keep members and supporters updated as this process unfolds.

The Werribee Football Club wishes to advise it will hold its 2024 Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 26th February, 2025 at Chirnsides by the River.

The meeting will commence at 6:00pm and is open to all 2024 financial members and life members.

AGENDA:

1. Confirmation of 2023 AGM minutes
2. Financial statements for year ended October 31, 2024
3. Presentation of 2024 Annual Report
4. Proposed changes to WFC constitution:

   • Clarifying that the object of WFC is the advancement of sport by amending the introduction to clause 2.1 to state:

   • "The object for which the Club is established is the advancement of sport, including:

   • Objects d) and e) in clause 2.1 do not support the sporting purpose of WFC. It is proposed to amend these clauses as follows:

   • d) To establish, maintain, and provide Social Club premises upon premises of which the Club is bona fide occupier, to support the Club in the execution of its functions in the encouragement of Australian Rules Football.

   • e) To support the execution of its functions by providing all authorised persons the usual privileges, advantages, conveniences, entertainment, food and beverages, and means of enjoyment (including lawful games).

5. Election of Directors
6. General business

Please note that only Werribee Football Club life members and 2024 financial members are permitted entry into the AGM. 

As we move into February and the VFL season draws closer, Werribee Football Club is pleased to announce a new partnership, joining forces with Ray White Werribee for 2025 and beyond.

A fresh deal will see the renowned real estate group become a Principal Partner of the club, with the Ray White logo to sit front and centre on the club’s staff polo.

Led by experienced agents Michelle Chick and Robert Krnjeta, Ray White Werribee is passionate about delivering results through hard work, discipline, and local knowledge. As part of Australia’s largest real estate network, their focus remains on enhancing the customer experience for Wyndham residents.

The team at Ray White Werribee spoke fondly of the new partnership with their city’s football team; "As a proud member of the Werribee community, supporting the Werribee Football Club is more than just a passion—it’s about bringing people together and celebrating the spirit of our town. Whether it’s on the field or in the stands, we’re all part of the same team.”

Werribee Football Club General Manager of Business Operations Justin Abrams echoed the excitement of the new partnership; “We are excited to announce Ray White Werribee as a partner for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.” He added, “Ray White Werribee shares similar community values to us and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship together.”

To learn more about Ray White Werribee, visit their website HERE.

Following our recent 2024 VFL Premiership success, the Werribee Football Club is excited to announce that our full suite of membership packages are now available for 2025.

2024 will forever be remembered for the drought-breaking Premiership, and in 2025... WE’RE GOING AGAIN. ARE YOU?

Sign up as a member for 2025 via this link.