Charleson back homein red, white and blue

FORMER Port Adelaide forward Lachie Charleson will return to his home club East Point next season.

The Kangaroos have announced the 20-year-old will line up in red, white and blue in 2026 when his VFL commitments permit him to do so.

Charleson has signed with Werribee following two years in the AFL system.

The mid-sized forward was selected by the Power with their second pick in the 2023 AFL National Draft (52 overall).

He did not feature in a senior game in his two years on the list.

In a statement released on its social media pages, East Point was delighted to welcome Charleson back into the fray.

“A proud product of our East Point juniors, Lachie made his senior debut for the club as a 16-year-old before being drafted to the Port Adelaide Football Club in 2023,” the statement read.

“Over the past two seasons, he has been part of the Port Adelaide squad, developing his game at the elite level.

“In 2026, Lachie will return to Victoria to play VFL with Werribee, and we’re thrilled that his home club will remain East Point.

“We can’t wait to see him back in the Red, White and Blue, giving back to the club where it all began.

“Welcome home, Lachie.”

Charleson will loom as a crucial addition – particularly at the business end of the season – for the Kangaroos, who will be searching for their first senior premiership since 2019.

East Point finished the 2025 minor round season in second place, but were eliminated from premiership contention in straight sets following losses to Darley and Melton.

The Kangaroos were beaten grand finalists in 2024.

In further good news at Eastern Oval, elite ball-winner Jackson Merrett has recommitted for 2026.

The 32-year-old, who played 56 games for Essendon between 2012-18, will again take on the role of assistant playing coach, supporting head-coach Joe Carmody.

“Together, Joe and Jackson will continue to lead our young playing group, playing a key role in building the strong culture and high standards that define our club,” the club said.

Merrett was voted best in this year’s finals series by the Kangaroos.

Jordan Johnston and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus shared the best and fairest award.