Motlop Powers to new future
STEVEN Motlop had six AFL clubs chasing him to take up free agency from Geelong — and one very good reason to join Port Adelaide.
“One thing stood out,” said Territorian Motlop, currently in Darwin, as he was released from restricted free agency by the Cats yesterday afternoon. “Guys who move to Port Adelaide play good footy.”
Motlop, 26, is the second free-agent to join the Power — along with Brisbane Lions midfielder Tom Rockliff — in the AFL trade period that runs until Thursday afternoon.
By then, Port Adelaide also might have Melbourne key position player Jack Watts to complete the three aces coach Ken Hinkley wants to add to his pack for more scoring power at Alberton.
Motlop reunites with Hinkley after they had just one year together at Geelong in 2009, after Motlop was the No.39 draft pick months earlier. Hinkley’s vision for Motlop — as a wingman and forward at the Power — was compelling as Motlop became an eagerly sought after free agent, with Gold Coast and Adelaide also among the keenest chasers.
“Definitely Kenny made a difference,” said Motlop, who has a four-year deal.
“We had one year together at Geelong where they still hold him in a high regard. Kenny was really impressive when I met with him — and that certainly helped get me over the line to Port Adelaide.”
Motlop, a 135-game player with the Cats, described his decision to move from Geelong as “stressful”.
But he paid tribute to all his suitors, including the Crows — who, with the Suns, were the highest bidders for Motlop’s signature.
“Adelaide did not do anything wrong,” Motlop said. “Every club was impressive. There are a lot of good people in football.
“And I am really lucky that at this stage of my career that I had so many clubs offering me opportunities.
“But for me there is more than football — it also is about my love for family. My brother (Daniel, who played six seasons at Port Adelaide) and my cousin Marlon (who works at the Power) were part of my decision too.
“I also want to win a premiership. And I think Port Adelaide is where that can happen for me.”
Motlop, who grew up barracking for Port Adelaide, will fulfil a dream to work in the same team as three-time Power club champion and AllAustralian Robbie Gray.
“Robbie’s a gun,” said Motlop of Gray, who is recovering from testicular cancer. “I have watched Robbie through all of my career. To now have the chance to train alongside him and play in the same team is really exciting for me.” WANDERERS WARATAH TODAY, 4PM, TIO STADIUM Sam Christie Brenton Motlop Inter WARATAHI Justin Maher Thomas Motlop Simon Bates Tyler Brimacombe Jeffery McDonald Rhys Griffiths Aaron Motlop