Elmore’s drive rolls on

ELMORE’S strong recruiting has continued ahead of the 2011 Heathcote District Football League season.The Bloods yesterday announced the signings of Sandhurst trio Simon Weekley, Tom Summerhayes and Bryce Scott, as well as Golden Square’s Danny Bateman.“The recruiting has come along well this year, and we’ve had a bit of luck along the way, which you need,’’ Elmore coach Andy Grant said yesterday.“We’re happy with the list we’ve put together. There’s still a couple of blokes we are waiting on an answer from, but as far as actively recruiting, we’re now finished.’’Of yesterday’s signings, Weekley will fill a key forward role for the Bloods.He is a former Bendigo Bombers-listed player, VCFL district league representative and was the 2007 Bendigo Football League rising star winner.Weekley kicked 27 goals in 18 matches for the Dragons this year.Summerhayes had a fine debut season with Sandhurst on the wing, and he’s expected to play in the same position for the Bloods next year.Scott and Bateman add some versatility to the Bloods, with roles in the forward line and midfield earmarked for the pair.As well as their latest four recruits, the Bloods have also secured a commitment from star midfielder Jason Griffin to again play with the club next season.Griffin will also have the added responsibility as the Bloods’ development coach.The Bloods’ latest recruits follow John Hardinge (from South Bendigo), young defender James Bower (Marong), Kyneton pair David Romer and William Gunter, and 2008 Rochester premiership player Sam Williams having already signed with the club.At this stage, the only losses from the Bloods, who were beaten by Lockington-Bamawm United by 15 points in this year’s preliminary final, are Ian Kay (Rutherglen) and Ashley Trollope (Strathfieldsaye).The Bloods will begin their pre-season training next Wednesday.Next year will be Grant’s third season as the Bloods coach. He has built a 24-12 win-loss record in his first two years.Brian Westley has been appointed Grant’s new assistant coach.The Bloods’ reserves will be coached by Bill Longford and Sam Hargreaves, with the under-17s to again be led by Matt Grogan.The 2011 draft fixture has Elmore pencilled in to host Colbinabbin in round one on Saturday, April 9.