Mail Medallist Joe Ferguson-Lane (pictured) has returned to Hatherleigh after two years at his home club West Gambier which was capped off with a premiership victory in 2024.


He has previously served the Eagles as a club captain, assistant coach, 2022 Mail Medallist and a Mid South East league representative player.


It will be Ferguson-Lane’s third stint with the reigning premiers and he carries zero player transfer points.


“His contributions both on and off the field have made him an important part of our club,” a Hatherleigh Football Club spokesperson said.


“We cannot wait to see him back in action!”


After beginning his career with West Gambier and winning two premierships, he spent the 2014 season with Hatherleigh and played in the Mid South East Football League interleague team.


Ferguson-Lane had been an automatic selection for the West Gambier Roos since his breakthrough season of 2009.


In that year he made 16 A Grade appearances as well as playing six matches in the then Under 18 competition.


Over the following five seasons, Ferguson-Lane clocked up 90 A Grade matches with the Roos and his loyalty, talent and leadership qualities were recognised with the club’s vice-captaincy role.


Using his trade as an electrician, he spent much of 2015 and 2016 on a working holiday in Europe.


Ferguson-Lane played in two Aussie Rules premiership teams in the European Cups with the West London Wildcats.


Meanwhile, the Hatherleigh Football Club has welcomed back another familiar face and talented player Matt Fabris for the upcoming season.


Like Ferguson-Lane, he is zero points signing.


“He has been an integral part of our club’s history, playing interleague on multiple occasions and proudly holding a 2013 premiership medal,” the spokesperson said.


“His experience and skill are sure to be invaluable as we head into 2025.


“We’re looking forward to seeing him back in the blue and gold, bringing his passion and expertise to the team.”