Former AFL player Harley Bennell is set to make his VFL debut this weekend for Port Melbourne, returning to the field as he eyes a potential AFL return.
Bennell's last AFL game came in 2020 for Melbourne, his only season with the side, after seasons spent at both Fremantle and the Gold Coast.
Much of Bennell's senior footy career was plagued by injury, managing just two games across four years with Fremantle due to an ongoing calf issue.
Prior to signing with Port Melbourne, Bennell was most recently playing for the Tiwi Bombers in the Northern Territory, while also working as a mentor on the island.
Port Melbourne coach Adam Skrobalak said the 30-year-old had impressed him so far in his time at the club.
“I've been super impressed with him,” Skrobalak told The West Australian.
“The way he's bought in and prepared himself so far, I couldn't be more impressed.
“He's still in good nick and moving really well. He'll play forward/mid.”
Bennell isn't the only former AFL player to feature in the Round 1 side, with Sam Naismith, Fraser Rosman and Tom Hird all named, while former Docker Darcy Tucker will make his VFL debut for the Kangaroos.
Port Melbourne will take on North Melbourne in Round 1 of the VFL season at Arden Street Oval on Saturday, with kick off at 3:05pm.
