Former Hawthorn player Connor Downie has signed with VFL club Port Melbourne for the 2026 season.
Downie was at the Hawks for two years after he was drafted with Pick 35 in the 2020 National Draft.
He featured in two AFL games in his maiden campaign, albeit one as the medical sub in Round 1 against Essendon. Downie later played against the Western Bulldogs.
Following his time in the brown and gold, Downie made the switch to North Melbourne, joining their VFL outfit for the 2023 season.
Since, he has split his time between the Kangaroos and Eastern Football League (EFL) clubs Vermont and East Ringwood, with the latter his local club in 2025.
But now the Borough are excited for what Downie can produce in their colours.
"Get up and about, Borough fans, as we welcome Connor Downie to Port Melbourne in 2026!" the statement said.
"A player with serious skill on the outside, elite running patterns, outstanding endurance, and a booming left foot that can turn a game in an instant.
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"Exciting times ahead, welcome, Connor!"
VFL head coach Brendan McCartney and VFL Director of Coaching James Hird will remain at the club in 2026.
Essendon's Dyson Heppell will continue his journey as a Port Melbourne player, likewise for ex-Bulldog Charlie Clarke and Hird's son, Tom.
