The Frankston Dolphins are delighted to announce the signing of three highly rated graduates from the TAC Cup for next season in Aaron Darling, James Rendell and Lachie McDonnell. Aaron and Lachie join us from the 2018 premiership-winning Dandenong Stingrays, whilst James joins the club from Sandringham Dragons. All three have had genuine interest from AFL clubs but after being overlooked at the recent AFL drafts have chosen Frankston as their preferred next pathway to the elite level.
Lachie is a strong running player known for his efficient kicking, and uses this to effect off half-back or through the midfield. His poise in traffic has been evident at training already and he is a genuine chance to play VFL footy early in the season. A talent in multiple sports, Lachie has recently returned from Sydney where he captained the Victorian schools volleyball team.
Aaron is an elite football talent and former AIS AFL Academy member who has been struck down by season-ending injuries in each of the last two years. At his best he is a booming kick and strong contested ball winner. Unfortunately Aaron has suffered a recent reoccurrence of his ACL issues and is expected to miss the 2019 season, however the club is determined to stick by his side and see him back on to the field in 2020 and beyond.
James is a mobile big man who represented Vic Metro in this year’s U/18 National championships. As the son of former Fitzroy and Brisbane ruckman Matt, he has a fine football pedigree and brings with that a desire to compete and improve. James has shown plenty on the track already and projects as a forward who can provide some ruck relief next season.
