Former no.2 AFL draft pick Harley Bennell is having one more crack at the AFL by returning to Victoria for the 2023 season.
The 30-year-old has signed with VFL club Port Melbourne in a bid to garner a fourth chance at nabbing a spot on a list at the top level.
Bennell lands at the Borough after crossing from NTFL side Tiwi Bombers following following a short stint in the Top End.
His tenure in the state leagues started after an 88-game AFL career across three clubs in each corner of the country.
The West Australian began as a foundation player with the Gold Coast Sun in 2011 and hinted at a long-career in Queensland when he finished second in their best-and-fairest count in 2012.
Disciplinary issues saw him leave and live out short cameos with Fremantle and Melbourne, injuries stunting his time in WA ahead of five games with the Dees before being shown the door following a breach of COVID19 protocols in 2020.
Despite the hiccups his ability was clear, averaging 21 disposals a game across his senior career.
His latest move will see him re-enter the AFL spotlight in red and blue, albeit with Port Melbourne.
Every heart beats true for the Borough red and blue 🔴🔵
Welcome to Port Melbourne, Harley Bennell!
Full article: https://t.co/CH4f7nDROJ pic.twitter.com/gU6liFByQB
— Port Melbourne FC (@PortMelbourneFC) February 9, 2023
"When I spoke to Harley a few weeks ago, it was very evident to me from the start that he has a strong focus and desire to play at the highest level he can and play a major role in contributing to group success, which is exactly what we want at our club," Port Melbourne football manager Glenn Balmforth said.
"For us to have the opportunity to bring to our club somebody of Harley's calibre with his experience and on-field ability at this stage in the pre-season, is very exciting and we can't wait for him to get down to Melbourne and get started as he is sure to excite the red and blue faithful."
A strong start in the VFL could attract the attention of prospecting AFL clubs in the mid-season draft.
In the new-look VFL, since its incorporation of NEAFL sides during the pandemic, Bennell can put himself on the radar with performances against interstate AFL club reserve sides.
Bennell however is keeping a lid on things and putting his focus on the job at hand.
"I'm really excited to get down to Melbourne to meet my new teammates and coaching staff for 2023," he said.
"I'm just happy to be playing footy at a high level again and whatever happens on the way is a bonus, so I'm going to enjoy this one."
The Borough finished in 16th place with seven wins in 2022.
They kick off their season against North Melbourne at Arden Street Oval on March 25.
