After claiming a historic fifth consecutive premiership with Northern Football League powerhouse Heidelberg last month, Barzen is bringing his golden touch back to Deakin Reserve, signing on with the Demons for the 2027 Goulburn Valley League season.
The ex-Murray Bushranger slotted 60 goals – including two in a 32-point grand final win over Greensborough – to put the final touches on his golden Tigers run, ending his tenure with a fourth consecutive selection in the forward line of the NFL’s Team of the Year.
It’s an exemplary resume, one Shepparton United football director Jason Kelly said the club was keen to regain.
“We talked to him each year and he was pretty keen to come home and play with his mates,” Kelly said.
“He’s probably done all he could at Heidelberg winning five in a row.
“He’s a big key forward, gets up the ground with great mobility. We’re super stoked to have him and pair him alongside Matt Casey.”
Casey himself booted 60 goals to take out the GVL goal-kicking, with Barzen’s inclusion adding another attacking edge to a Demons outfit that missed finals by one game.
Best-and-fairest runner-up Brodie Newman has departed after one season at the Skene St end, but United will be buoyed by having the services of VFL midfielder Zavier Maher on a full-time basis.
Meanwhile, Tatura has signed two key recruits to offset the departure of several senior regulars.
Jimmy Bennett (Strathfieldsaye), Sean Johns (Mulwala) and Xavier Hutchison (Dookie United) have exited Tatura Park, but the Bulldogs’ key position stocks have been bolstered by the addition of Hampden League young gun Amon Radley.
The 20-year-old brother of 2026 recruit Finn, the former GWV Rebels graduate was a consistent performer for home club Warrnambool and has the ability to play at either end of the ground.
Tatura’s midfield has also received a boost.
Ex-Brisbane Academy and Northern Bullants gun Caleb Franks makes the move across after a season with VAFA club Collegians, while Blake Jorgensen crosses over from Ovens & Murray club Wodonga Raiders.
In the Picola District Football League, Katamatite has added another long-time Numurkah servant to its list.
After welcoming Blues’ skipper Nathan Hicks and defender Pat Millen to the club, the Tigers have also added Tim Arnel as a playing assistant coach following 199 games at Numurkah Showgrounds.
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