Fremantle have made their second player signing of the 2019 Telstra AFL Trade Period, trading for defender/midfielder James Aish from Collingwood.
In the final deal struck of the 2019 trade period, Fremantle received Aish, pick no. 69 and a future third round selection in exchange for a future second and future fourth round selection, both on-traded from St Kilda.
The trade was made after Aish requested a trade to Fremantle on Wednesday.
The 23-year-old featured in Collingwood’s 2018 Grand Final appearance and has played in five finals during the past two seasons, to add to his 82-game career so far.
The South Australian was drafted to Brisbane with pick seven in the 2013 National Draft and earned a Rising Star nomination in 2014.
After 32 games over two seasons with the Lions, Aish was traded to Collingwood, playing 15 games in his first season at the Pies in 2016.
Aish formed part of the Collingwood backline, with his last two seasons played under the Pies then defensive coach and now Fremantle senior coach, Justin Longmuir.
Fremantle list manager Mark Micallef said that Aish would be a versatile contributor to the club.
“James was identified for his outside run as well as his ability to play at half back,” Micallef said.
“We feel that his ball use and his competitiveness are also big assets he can bring to our football club.
“James said that Justin Longmuir, who coached him during his time at Collingwood, was a big drawcard to his coming over to Fremantle.
“We feel like we’ve got someone who can be a part of Fremantle’s future for a long period of time.”
Fremantle have also signed midfielder Blake Acres from St Kilda during this trade period as well as boosting the club’s draft hand for both the 2019 draft.
Fremantle currently hold picks seven, 10, 22, 58, 69, 79 and 83 for the 2019 draft.
As it stands, Fremantle’s 2020 draft hand is;
First round
Second round
Second round (received from Melbourne)
Third round (received from Collingwood)
