Courtesy of Leader OnlineBy Paul Amy
NO coach likes losing a good player, but Balwyn’s Daniel Donati is pleased his young charge Jayme Gottliebsen has joined Sandringham.
Gottliebsen, 20, figured in Balwyn’s 2012 and ’13 premierships, playing mostly on a back flank and wing.
He was recruited from North Ringwood, where in his final year in the Colts he kicked 50-odd goals.
Former Zebras who played with him at Balwyn recommended him to Sandringham and he goes with Donati’s best wishes.
“The first thing about him is that he’s a terrific kid, has a very good head on his shoulders,” Donati said.
“He’s really skilful and courageous, good size, big tank and he’s got some tricks.
“That VFL environment will drive him through. He’ll benefit from training three or nights a week. We’re happy he’s having a crack at a better level.”
Donati, who won the 1999 Norm Goss Medal as best-afield in Springvale’s VFL premiership, said he’d thrown Gottliebsen into the midfield at times and he thrived.
“Especially in the last quarter, when we needed run. Against Noble Park this year we put him in there and he almost won us the game with his energy.”
The Zebras have also signed Sandringham Dragons graduates Tim Cumming, Charlie Kelso and Aaron Hodges.
Supporters won’t miss Kelso: he’s 208cm. Cumming also tops 200cm.
