The Courier |
NORTH Ballarat City feels it has been “hung out to dry” by Jarrod Edwards’ decision to return to Redan.
Edwards yesterday requested he be cleared from North City to return to the Lions, a decision he said was the hardest he had made in his football career.
On the eve of the 2013 Ballarat Football League season, the four-time Henderson medallist met with North City yesterday to inform them of his request.
City president Stephen Darbin said the club was deeply disappointed by Edwards’ decision, although it had become increasingly likely as the weeks went on.
Edwards signed with Peach’s North City in February, having played at the club for 18 years in the juniors and seniors, before he crossed to Redan.
“I feel like we’ve been hung out to dry,” Darbin said.
“Jarrod gave us his word he was going to come and play with us. It’s up to the footy community to judge what is right and wrong now.
“It didn’t need to happen, we didn’t need the distraction. We feel like the innocent party.”
Edwards told The Courier yesterday he had not made up his mind until late on Thursday afternoon, after he had trained with Redan for the first time this year.
He said the desire to play with close friends at Redan lured him back, unable to comprehend playing against the side which he helped win four Red Onion Creative BFL premierships.
“I have the utmost respect for North as a club. They have given me the time to make the decision and I understand they are disappointed,” Edwards said.
“It’s been a really tough decision. I don’t think anyone else in Ballarat football has as much pressure on the decisions they make as I do.
“The heart strings have been tugged at. The embarrassment is all mine.”
Edwards said he had received offers from Central Highlands Football League clubs, but in his heart the decision was always split between Redan and North City.
Redan president Darryl Blomeley said final details needed to be signed off over the weekend.
“If he has decided to come back then we would have him with open arms, which we have always said,” said Blomeley.
North Ballarat City and Redan first meet in round 11, in what is certain to be a match to attract a great amount of attention.
City’s 2013 campaign kicks off under lights tonight against East Point at Eureka Stadium.
In other matches, Redan hosts Melton South, Bacchus Marsh and Sebastopol will both try to bounce back from opening round losses, Ballarat will clash with Lake Wendouree and Sunbury will look to make it two-from-two at home against Darley.