The Colac Tigers have pulled off a significant recruiting coup for the 2025 season, securing the signature of key forward Ethan Liddle from the Geelong West Giants. The move was heavily influenced by the persuasive efforts of Colac legend and former Hawthorn premiership player, Jonathan Simpkin.
A Persuasive Pitch from a Club Great
The deal to bring Liddle to Central Reserve was finalised after a crucial meeting involving the player, his manager, and Simpkin. The Tigers' champion, who played a key role in their 2018 premiership and won the Mathieson Medal in 2016, was instrumental in convincing Liddle of the club's direction and culture.
Jonathan Simpkin's involvement proved to be a decisive factor, leveraging his deep connection to the club and his respected standing in the football community. His pitch focused on the strong environment and future prospects at Colac, which ultimately swayed Liddle's decision.
Bolstering the Tigers' Forward Line
Ethan Liddle's acquisition addresses a clear need for the Tigers, adding a potent and experienced target in their attacking half. The 24-year-old has established himself as a reliable goal-kicker in the Geelong Football League (GFL).
Liddle kicked 38 goals from 16 games for the Giants in the 2024 season, demonstrating his consistency and scoring power. His ability to clunk marks and convert opportunities will provide Colac with a much-needed focal point up forward, taking pressure off the existing attacking structure.
Colac football manager, Luke Manson, expressed his delight at securing the signature, highlighting the strategic importance of the signing. The club identified strengthening their key forward stocks as a major priority during the off-season, and Liddle fits the profile perfectly.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
This signing marks a major statement of intent from the Colac Tigers as they build their list for the 2025 GFL campaign. Securing a player of Liddle's calibre, against interest from other clubs, shows the pulling power the Tigers still possess, especially when backed by revered figures like Simpkin.
For Geelong West Giants, losing a key forward who contributed nearly 40 goals in a season is a significant blow. It highlights the competitive nature of player movement between regional leagues, where local connections and persuasive club champions can often tip the balance.
The move is expected to be formalised when the GFL's player transfer window officially opens on October 1st. All eyes will now be on how Ethan Liddle integrates into the Colac line-up and whether his arrival can help propel the Tigers back into premiership contention.
