Anthony Scott has signed with the Western Bulldogs for 2021.
The Footscray VFL product has trained with the Bulldogs since the start of the year and has now been added to the list as part of the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period.
Scott takes the place vacated by retired forward Sam Lloyd and will wear the number 28.
The 25-year-old utility joined the ‘Scray in 2019 and won the best and fairest in his first season, after crossing from Old Trinity in the VAFA.
He had been elevated to the role of VFL vice-captain for 2020, before the season was abandoned due to COVID-19.
General Manager of List Management and Football Projects, Sam Power, said Scott deserved his AFL opportunity.
“Anthony is a mature-aged, ready-made player who we believe has the ability to impact at AFL level,” Power said.
“He’s had a really strong pre-season with us, played some good footy in our intra-club games and impressed his coaches and teammates with the way he’s approached things.
“Anthony had a great VFL season in 2019 for Footscray, winning the best and fairest. He showcased his ability to play across all three lines and also to impact the scoreboard, kicking 19 goals in 18 games.
“That versatility will hold him in good stead coming into our AFL program. He covers the ground well, is a real competitor and has a penetrating left foot kick.
“Anthony has earned this opportunity for 2021 and we’re excited to see what he can do.”
Scott is the fourth player currently on the Bulldogs’ senior list to have come through the Footscray VFL program, following Will Hayes, Ryan Gardner and Mitch Hannan.
