Departed North Melbourne defender Kallan Dawson has signed with VFL club Williamstown for 2026, returning to the Seagulls after three-and-a-half years at Arden Street.
Dawson was drafted by the Kangaroos via the 2022 Mid-Season Draft after a bright start to the year in the blue and gold as one of the state league competition's best emerging backmen.
The 27-year-old played 19 AFL games with North Melbourne during his time on the club's list, while he added a further 38 VFL games to his career tally.
Dawson played three games under Alastair Clarkson in 2025, a campaign that followed a season where he featured in 11 AFL matches - a career high.
After not being offered a new contract by the Roos for next year, Dawson has decided to return to Williamstown for the 2026 VFL season.
“We're thrilled to welcome Kallan back to Williamstown,” Seagulls football boss Ash Collins said of Dawson's return.
“He's developed his game enormously during his time at North Melbourne, gaining valuable AFL experience that will be a huge asset to our backline.
“Kallan's familiarity with our program and connection with Justin Plapp make this a seamless fit. We know he'll bring leadership, maturity and a competitive edge that will really benefit our playing group.”
Dawson adds to a promising off-season recruitment drive at Williamstown, who have also added David Cuningham (Footscray), Diesel Moloney (Footscray), Josh Hamilton (Northern Bullants) and Braydon Preuss (Yarragon).
The Seagulls finished 10th on the ladder in 2025, bowing out to Casey in the second week of the VFL finals after defeating Collingwood in the Wildcard Round.
