UPDATE: As the clock ticks down to the Tasmania Football Club’s pre-season kickoff in just two months, excitement builds around potential homegrown talent eyeing a return to the field. The Devils, set to enter the VFL in 2026, are already in discussions with several Tasmanian footballers who could wear the team colors and help secure a coveted spot in the AFL.
With the AFL’s annual list changes just announced, three Tasmanians—Jimmy Webster, Robbie Fox, and Jye Menzie—are now free agents. Webster, who has retired after 180 games with St Kilda, brings invaluable experience. Meanwhile, Fox, a former Swans player with a history of 105 games, and Menzie, who played 47 games for Essendon, are also on the move, and VFL coach Jeromey Webberley has confirmed talks with all three.
The urgency increases as these players could significantly bolster the Devils’ lineup. Notably, Hugh Dixon, a former Fremantle and West Coast forward, has been making waves at the Southport Sharks in the VFL, scoring 50 goals this year and showcasing his talent in the preliminary finals. He, along with Matt McGuinness, also a key player with a history at North Melbourne, could form the backbone of a competitive team.
In the SANFL, former Hawthorn player Jackson Callow is another name generating buzz. His potential return could create a family dynamic on the field as he might join forces with his brother, Toby Callow, if the younger player remains undrafted this season.
The shift in talent is further fueled by the recent disbanding of the TSL, prompting several Tasmanian players to seek opportunities across leagues. Notable names like Isaac Hyatt, Liam Jones, Blade Sulzberger, and Oscar Van Dam have all ventured to the SANFL, with varying success in securing senior playtime. Their connections to Webberley, who coached them in the Talent League, may play a pivotal role in their recruitment.
The emotional aspect of this recruitment is significant. Not only could sons of past stars like Ian Callinan—whose son Jack Callinan is making his mark in Adelaide—have a chance to step into the spotlight, but the nostalgia surrounding these players could resonate deeply with fans.
The Devils aim to blend experience with youth, eyeing mature-aged rookies such as Jared Dakin, Thomas Donnelly, Baynen Lowe, and Alec Wright. Their seasoned presence is expected to uplift the fledgling club and galvanize local support as they prepare for this exciting new chapter.
As the Devils gear up for their inaugural season, the recruitment landscape is shifting rapidly. Fans and players alike are eager to see who will return home to chase the dream of AFL glory. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as the Devils finalize their roster and prepare to make a significant impact in the VFL and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and watch for announcements on player signings and team preparations as the countdown to 2026 begins!
