UPDATE: Werribee has just announced a major recruitment boost ahead of the 2026 Victorian Football League (VFL) season, signing three players in a bid to enhance their squad. Among the fresh faces is Massimo Raso, who arrives from Richmond after a standout rookie season where he scored an impressive 26 goals as a small forward.
Only 19 years old, Raso quickly made a name for himself in the VFL, winning Richmond’s leading goalkicking award and earning a finalist spot for the prestigious Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal, which recognizes the league’s top young talent. He averaged 12.6 disposals over 20 games and demonstrated his explosive potential with a season-high 24 disposals against Sandringham in round two, followed by a remarkable three-goal performance against Frankston.
Werribee’s football manager Kyle Hartigan expressed enthusiasm about Raso’s signing, stating, “Massimo is an exciting player who showcased his skills last season, and we believe he will make a significant impact on our team.”
In addition to Raso, Werribee has secured Lachie Charleson, a 20-year-old forward who joins from Port Adelaide after being drafted at pick 52 in the 2023 AFL Draft. Charleson boasts 31 games of experience in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL), where he scored 28 goals across the 2024 and 2025 seasons, averaging 1.3 goals per game.
“Lachie will be a great addition to our list for next season,” Hartigan noted. “He is a flashy forward who can find the goals from anywhere in the SANFL, adding depth to our small forward group.”
Completing the trio is Sam Donegan, a 22-year-old forward with 25 games of VFL experience, who arrives from the Northern Bullants. Donegan, who can also transition into the midfield, played 13 games during the last VFL season, bringing versatility to Werribee’s roster.
This recruitment drive comes as Werribee looks to fill gaps left by the recent departures of Zac Banch and Flynn Young, who were taken in the mid-season draft, and the retirement of Angus Hicks. The club’s proactive approach signals a strong commitment to competing in the upcoming season.
With these signings, Werribee aims to not only bolster their squad but also reignite hopes of a successful run in the 2026 VFL season. Fans and followers can expect these new players to make their mark as they prepare for the challenges ahead. Stay tuned for more updates as the team gears up for an exciting season!
