Promising young defender Matt McGuinness will make the move from North Melbourne to Southport for the 2023 season.
He said, “I’m super excited. It’s the next step in my journey to move from Victoria to the Gold Coast and continue playing in a professional environment.”
“I came up to check out the club and meet with the coaches and some of the staff which was great. I also have some family and friends up here, so in the end, it was a no-brainer for me.”
McGuinness was on North Melbourne’s AFL list for three years. In 2021 he injured his foot and missed the majority of the season.
In 2022 he played 17 matches in the VFL for the Kangaroos and averaged 17 disposals, six marks and two tackles a game.
The 22-year-old, 195 cm defender is originally from Tasmania and was drafted as part of North Melbourne’s Next Gen Academy.
Outside of football, McGuinness is a personal trainer, and he loves to play golf.
Steve Daniel said, “Matt is a terrific signing. He will complement our defence well, and we look forward to having him in Southport colours next season.”