Former Giant Bolsters Peel list

by Alex Paull

FORMER Greater Western Sydney Giants and Perth forward Gerald Ugle is the latest key signing for the Peel Thunder, rounding out a list that is young but packed with talent.

A decorated junior, Ugle is a graduate from the AIS-AFL Academy, and was snapped up by the Giants as a 17-year-old as part of their draft concessions in 2010, managing three games before being delisted following the 2013 season.

Ugle, who turns 22 on January 31, plied his trade with the Demons last season and averaged 18 possessions a game while booting 18 goals as a high half forward.

He is the second cousin of Stephen and Bradley Hill and West Coast’s Josh Hill, while cousin Kirk played three games for Collingwood in 2012.

Ugle’s great-uncle is Troy Ugle, who played 43 games for West Coast and is a life member of Swan Districts.

Peel coach Cam Shepherd said the club pursued Ugle largely due to his versatility, capacity to run and classy disposal.

“He’s been training with us for a couple of weeks, we’ve been impressed with his work ethic and we’re hopeful he will improve our side in 2015,” Shepherd said.

“He’s a half-forward, wingman type player who will add depth in that area. He is highly skilled left-footer with great work ethic, so we targeted Gerald and we’ve been rewarded with his signature.”

Shepherd said despite Ugle’s age, his experience in the AFL system would hold him in good stead with a young group.

“We’re looking forward to his career blossoming, but we’re also expecting leadership from Gerald as well with our young squad.

Ugle’s signing completes a strong off-season recruitment drive for Peel after landing former Carlton defender Josh Bootsma mid-season last year and former Essendon star Leroy Jetta in October – who continues to impress the Thunder coaching staff.

“We’re really pleased with Leroy’s leadership, and he’s training really well so that’s a real positive for us,” Shepherd said.

After returning from the Christmas break in good shape, a number of youngsters continue to impress throughout what has been a gruelling pre-season, including new additions Brayden Lawler and Mitch Gill.

Shepherd revealed that the training sessions were 30% longer than last pre-season, with an emphasis on getting his young charges fitter and stronger than ever for the 2015 season.

“The players relish feeling stronger, but the way the young players have bought in to the game plan and to the club has been great, and we feel those young players will be the cornerstone for us going forward,” Shepherd said.