Talented New South Welshman signs for 2016!
Coburg are thrilled to announce that New South Welshman Michael Mattingly has agreed to join the Club for 2016, with the medium defender signing from the Northern Knights.
A talented sportsman originally from Turvey Park in Wagga, Michael moved to Corowa in order to further pursue his AFL ambitions. A former member of the GWS academy, Michael represented the NSW/ACT Rams in the TAC Cup and the NAB under 18 championships in 2014. Despite his good form throughout the season, Michael was overlooked in both drafts.
Despite receiving heavy interest from VFL and SANFL clubs, Michael moved to Melbourne and took up an offer with the Northern Knights as a nineteen year old for 2015. Michael managed 15 games for the Knights and was named amongst the coaches’ best seven times, and finishing fifth in the best and fairest. Mick also managed two senior VFL matches as 23rd man with the Northern Blues.
Coburg’s List Manager Sebastian Spagnuolo was stoked with Michael agreeing to terms with the club. “Michael is a player that we feel will develop very well into a fine rebounding defender for our club. His disposal by foot is a real strength of his and we’re excited to have another talented youngster from the TAC Cup join our club.”
Michael was recommended by former Coburg player and fellow Wagga local Ted Lindon. With an outstanding kicking and ball winning ability, Michael is also capable of playing in the midfield. A former Cricketer who was vice captain of the New South Wales XI schoolboys side that toured the UK in 2013, Michael has outstanding leadership qualities and provides plenty of drive from the backline. With experience in senior football in the VFL and NEAFL under his belt, we are pleased to have him commit to our club for the 2016 season.
