In an exciting development for Collingwood, the Magpies are set to welcome prolific goalkicker, Lachie Schultz, into their forward line in 2024. The move comes after a successful trade negotiated with his earlier team, the Fremantle Dockers.
As part of the deal, Collingwood has parted with their first-round pick and pick 34 in favour of the Dockers. Schultz, a vibrant forward with a record of 63 goals over the preceding two seasons, is anticipated to enrich the Magpies’ attacking possibilities.
Simultaneously, Fremantle has bid farewell to Liam Henry, another dedicated player. His departure to St Kilda resulted from an exchange of picks between the Dockers and the Saints.
Having spent five fruitful years in Fremantle, Schultz, a self-made forward, is all set for his next chapter with Collingwood. His decision to switch teams was heavily influenced by his family and the distinctive aura he senses surrounding the Magpies.
Expressing gratitude towards Fremantle for nurturing his career, Schultz commented, “The Dockers gave me my first football opportunity, and I will always cherish my time there. I wouldn’t have been the player I am today without their unwavering support.”
Meanwhile, Collingwood football boss Graham Wright hailed Schultz as an “exciting acquisition” for the Pies’ forward line. Speaking about their new player, he added, “Lachie’s talent and forward craft flavoured with his speed, power, and endurance will add considerable value to our football program.”
In another significant trade, Fremantle reached an agreement with St Kilda allowing the transfer of their standout wingman, Liam Henry. The Dockers parted with Henry and their future fourth-round pick for the Saints’ future second and fourth-round picks.
Today, Henry, after 43 games and an impressive 2023 season averaging 20 possessions per game, heads to St Kilda. Expressing anguish about his departure, Fremantle list boss David Walls said, “Liam’s worth a lot. He has come a long way and started to get reward for that. It is extremely disappointing that he wants to move east.”
On received their new player, St Kilda too voiced their excitement about the “elite skills and composure” of Liam Henry and his significant potential to dazzle Saints fans.
The array of player shifts has also seen North Melbourne securing Richmond key defender Bigoa Nyuon. Kangaroo’s list boss, Brady Rawlings, voiced his excitement, stating, “Biggie is an athletic key defender who stood out to us… and we see more opportunity for him at Arden Street.”
In conclusion, throughout this recently culminated trading season, the AFL family has seen multiple shifts of reputed players across clubs. As fans eagerly await the halls to open again, only time will tell how these transfers will impact the dynamics on the field.
