Torquay coach Dom Gleeson says Matt Boag leaves with nothing but the club’s best wishes after the 2024 Les Ash medallist signed with Central Highlands club Ballan earlier this week.
Gleeson says Boag, who finished runner-up in the Tigers’ best-and-fairest, had been transparent with the club about his plans.
“Boagy’s handled himself with nothing but class,” Gleeson said.
“Are we disappointed to lose him? Absolutely. But we understand this was an opportunity he’s keen to explore.
“Like it was when he went off to have a crack in the GFL, the door is always open for Matt Boag at McCartney Oval.”
Despite losing Boag, his departure has been offset by the return of Chase Loftus from WAFL club Swan Districts.
Loftus, who won the best-on-ground medal in Torquay’s 2024 grand final win over Anglesea, has spent the past two seasons in Western Australia.
After playing two league games in 2025, he became a regular in the Swans’ lineup this year, making 14 appearances and kicking five goals.
Loftus is expected to join Geelong’s VFL program in 2027.
“We’re not sure how much of Chase we will see in a Torquay jumper next year, but we’re rapt to have a local product back home,” Gleeson said,
“We’re sure he’ll give a good account of himself at the Cats; however, we know he’ll be a welcome inclusion when he’s not required at Geelong.”
Gleeson, who will enter a record 13th season as Torquay coach in 2027, also confirmed the signing of GFNL pair Gus Morrison and August Stelma in another boost for this year’s beaten grand finalists.
Morrison had an impressive year with St Joseph’s, playing a career-high 19 games and kicking 13 goals.
“Gus is good mates with Angus Hanley, Will Montebello and Cooper Patton from his school days and was keen to play with them,” Gleeson said.
Stelma spent two seasons with Geelong West after arriving from former Bendigo League club Gisborne heading into the 2025 season.
He played 33 matches with the Giants and spent this year as a train-on player with Geelong’s VFL squad.
“August knows a few of our boys through uni,” Gleeson said.
“He’ll be a good addition to our squad.”
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