Rodi joins Roos in mid-season boost

KANGAROO Flat has received a nice mid-season boost, gaining the services of former Sandhurst midfielder Jeremy Rodi.

The 24-year-old, who is an assistant coach with the Bendigo Pioneers, joins the Roos following a stint with Essendon District league club Pascoe Vale last season.

He spent the 2023 season with his hometown club Merbein in the Sunraysia league.

A stint up north followed 22 senior games with BFNL powerhouse Sandhurst between 2019 and 2022.

Rodi – a creative and hard-running midfielder – officially signed with the Roos midway through last week.

His wealth of experience from his time in the TAC Cup, Sunraysia and Essendon District leagues and his previous association with Sandhurst is sure to benefit the Roos as they hunt for their first win and strive for improvement in the second half of the season.

Senior coach Tyrone Downie hailed Rodi’s arrival as a great boost for the club, particularly the club’s crop of young players.

“Jez is a quality person and footballer,” he said.

“He’s got a high footy IQ, great energy, and he’ll slot into our midfield group seamlessly.

“More importantly, he’s aligned with where we’re going and wants to help us grow as a group.

“I’m confident that Jez will have a positive impact on the development of our group.”

Rodi boasts a pre-existing connection with the Roos.

He is the partner of the Roos’ star A-grade goal shooter Ruby Barkmeyer.

Kangaroo Flat head of Football Jason Stevens said Rodi’s decision to join the Roos over several other Bendigo clubs spoke volumes.

“Jez believes in what we’re building at Kangaroo Flat,” he said.

“He had options, but he’s chosen to be part of our journey, and that’s a big vote of confidence in the direction we’re heading.

“His experience and leadership will help us achieve our goals for the remainder of 2025 and set us up strongly heading into 2026.”

Rodi is expected to line-up in up to half a dozen matches, when his Pioneers’ commitments allow.

The Roos return to action after the long-weekend bye against Gisborne this Saturday at Gardiner Reserve.