Maryborough’s playing stocks have received a much-needed boost in the BFNL off-season.

Key forward Cam Rinaldi is returning to his home club after a stint with Kangaroo Flat, while Maryborough coach Shane Skontra has also signed a handful of senior players who will bolster the Magpies depth.

“Getting Cam back we hope is a reflection of where people think the club is going,” Maryborough coach Shane Skontra said.

“He was pretty considered in his decision and we’re very happy to have him back.

“He gives us another option up forward, but more important than that his character and professionalism around the club is already having a profound effect.”

North Ballarat VFL-listed player Glen Coleman will be aligned with Maryborough, while midfielder Mitch Kennedy and ruckman/key defender Will Short have returned to the Magpies from the MCDFNL.

Skontra has also signed three young players – Matthew Coon, Tanner Hamilton and Harry Murphy – from Ballarat Football League clubs.

“The three young boys from Ballarat are all about 20-21 and they come from strong clubs in Ballarat where they’ve struggled to get opportunities,” Skontra said.

“They’ll add to our depth, which is something we really lacked this year.”

Skontra was also excited about having Angus Watts and Tom Roughead play senior footy in 2017.

“Angus and Tom didn’t get to play this year, so they’ll basically be two more recruits for us,’’ Skontra said.

“They’re both six foot three in height, so structurally we’ll be much better off next year.

“Player retention has been critical for us and I don’t know of one player who is leaving the club.”

Skontra said the fresh faces around the club had given the Mapies a timely confidence boost.

“The first few weeks of training have been so much better (than last pre-season),’’ Skontra said.

“On and off the field things are moving in the right direction. We’re upgrading our facilities and we’re looking at getting a new jumper. It’s exciting to be around the club.”