Harley Balic will be a Demon in the 2018 season after Fremantle and Melbourne struck a deal that sees the midfielder return to his home state of Victoria with a one-year contract.
Fremantle will receive Melbourne’s fourth round selection - currently no.66 – the same pick that brought 2017 Beacon Award winner Luke Ryan to Fremantle in the 2016 NAB AFL National Draft.
Balic played four games in his debut AFL season and was twice granted indefinite leave for personal reasons.
General manager of list management Brad Lloyd wished Balic well at his new club.
“Harley’s a talented young player and we’re pleased that he gets an opportunity with the Melbourne Football Club,” Lloyd said.
“We wish him all the best for his career ahead.”
Fremantle holds a strong hand heading into the upcoming 2017 NAB AFL National Draft, starting with pick no.5.
The club also has picks no.41 and 42 in the third round and picks no.57, 60 and 66 in the fourth round.
“The deal secures another fourth round pick, which strengthens our position in the upcoming national draft in November,” Lloyd said.
Taken in the 2015 National Draft while carrying a wrist injury, Balic thanked numerous people from Fremantle’s football department, including senior coach Ross Lyon and football operations manager Chris Bond.
“I'd like to thank everyone from the Fremantle Football Club, from Ross and 'Bondy', to Kim Mercer, Mark Anderson, Jason Weber and everyone in between,” Balic said.
“I thank the football club for believing in me and drafting me. Not only did they believe in me, they helped shape me as a person on and off the field.
“They helped me overcome a wrist injury, as well as helping me off the field to become a much stronger and overall a much better person.
“I couldn't stress enough how thankful I am to be given the opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream.”
