North Melbourne recruit Nathan Hrovat is determined to make the most of his fresh start
NORTH Melbourne recruit Nathan Hrovat says it was a difficult decision to leave the Western Bulldogs after their fairytale season that culminated in a drought-breaking premiership.
Hrovat, 22, spent three seasons at the premiers, but struggled to cement a spot in the starting 22 predominantly due to a poor run of injuries.
Indeed, injuries took such a toll on the first round pick that he contemplated leaving the Bulldogs during his latest setback. He new a change of scenery would help him both physically and mentally.
“It’s always tough in those situations when you do have really good mates and that’s part of the decision making process,” Hrovat said.
“But early on in the year after I had my ankle surgery I thought a new start and new environment would probably be good for me. I couldn’t be happier to land at the Kangaroos.”
Hrovat said he was determined make a good impression at Arden Street and floated the idea of playing against his former side as an exciting prospect. While he was disappointed to miss out on the 2016 premiership, he harboured no ill feelings towards the Bulldogs.
“It’s like coming in for prep, starting all over again, so coming in I just want to work hard in the preseason, put my head down and earn the respect of my teammates,” Hrovat said.
“I’ve made some really good relationships at the Western Bulldogs and obviously where they’ve come from in the last couple of years is probably a testament to where they’re going as a club.
“There’s always times where players come back and you get edged out, but I couldn’t be prouder of the boys. I’ve made some really good relationships at the Bulldogs and for them to win a flag after the period they’ve gone through is really exciting for them.”
Hrovat comes to the club at a time of great change.
Not only has the club changed its logo and reinstated the name North Melbourne on its branding, but lost key personnel in the form of Brent Harvey, Drew Petrie, Nick Dal Santo and Michael Firrito.
Harvey, however, will return to the club to coach the young midfield, a prospect which buoyed Hrovat.
“I was privileged to work with Boomer a little bit before I got picked up so to hear he’s coming back to the club next year is really exciting,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Hrovat arrived at the Kangaroos during the trade period alongside Paul Ahearn (GWS) and Marley Williams (Collingwood).
Originally published as ‘Coming in for prep’: Old Dog keen to impress