Welcome to the Western Bulldogs- James Harmes

[whythelongface]

Trade done and dusted. Whatever we may think of this trade he is one of ours now so let?s wish him lots of success.

[bulldogtragic]

Welcome. Now teach us the words from Freed From Desire and why that was such an important thing to do. I’m sure it’s a killer story.

Sorry. I ain’t sorry.

[GVGjr]

Code Sports

JAMES HARMES TRADED TO DOGS




James Harmes has had his wish come true after the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne agreed to a deal for the midfielder just hours after an official request was made.

The Bulldogs have parted with a future third-round draft pick on to secure Harmes, who had one year remaining on a contract at the Demons but was encouraged to explore his options during a post-season exit meeting.

Harmes officially nominated Whitten Oval as his new home of choice on Tuesday afternoon, with paperwork lodged on the deal just a few hours later.

The 28-year-old featured in only nine AFL matches this season and started as a substitute in three of those.

Harmes – who has played 152 AFL games – looks set to add some hardness and accountability to the Bulldogs midfield after the club lost Josh Dunkley to the Brisbane Lions during last year’s trade period.

“James comes to us with plenty of experience,” Western Bulldogs list manager Sam Power said.

“His defensive mindset and ability to cover the ground will add to our midfield group, while he also has the versatility to play in a variety of roles.”

Harmes had said at the TAB Spring Fling event last week that it had been a “pretty tough year” and expressed a desire for a “fresh start”.

“I probably didn’t play the footy I wanted to play and that’s why I was back in the VFL,” Harmes said.

“I’m just really looking forward to putting my best foot forward next year, whether that’s at Melbourne or where that is, playing the best football I can.

“I’ve got a real determination to go back as fit as I can and play some really good footy, wherever that is.”

Harmes enjoyed a career-best season in 2021, playing 18 games and featuring in Melbourne’s premiership side.He was originally picked up by the Demons in the 2014 rookie draft.

[Mantis]

I'm ok with this move... our midfield group has been full of downhill skiers for too long and it's cost us games so adding someone to the mix who has a defensive mindset isn't a bad thing.

Hopefully he does and he says (presents super fit) and adds to the competition for spots.

[GVGjr]

Harmes will most likely play on a wing but could a left field suggestion be that Harmes could become our back pocket?

[hujsh]

Harmes will most likely play on a wing but could a left field suggestion be that Harmes could become our back pocket?

I was wondering that myself. On paper a lot of the right attributes but it takes more than just pace to know how to beat the likes of Cameron.

[Scraggers]

I think he is a step up from McComb, McNeill and Scott. So it’s a step in the right direction. Whether he has the wheels (still) to play midfield, time will tell.

[G-Mo77]

I think he is a step up from McComb, McNeill and Scott. So it’s a step in the right direction. Whether he has the wheels (still) to play midfield, time will tell.

Let's be honest, lots would be a step up feom those guys.

I'm ok with this move. 4 years is a bit of a concern though.

[josie]

4 years? What is happening to our club?

Welcome Harmes, hope you fly the flag well for us, look forward to your debut with us.

[Bulldog4life]

Let's be honest, lots would be a step up feom those guys.

I'm ok with this move. 4 years is a bit of a concern though.

Where did you read that G-Mo?

[Grantysghost]

Are we forgetting any allegations of Bali indiscretions now?

[Grantysghost]

Let's be honest, lots would be a step up feom those guys.

I'm ok with this move. 4 years is a bit of a concern though.

4 years if that's true I might seriously have a meltdown instead of the fake one I've been enjoying.

[hujsh]

4 years if that's true I might seriously have a meltdown instead of the fake one I've been enjoying.

Haven't see 4 anywhere. 3 years and a trigger for a 4th. Coin would have to be a bit low to buy the security of an extra year

[GVGjr]

I'm really interested in how we might best utilise Harmes in our line-up. I get he's an upgrade on some of the more marginally talented players we've had on the list but finding out why we were keen to bring him in is what I'm hoping to hear about.

[GVGjr]

Haven't see 4 anywhere. 3 years and a trigger for a 4th. Coin would have to be a bit low to buy the security of an extra year

Is that one from the Trade Preacher or has it been mentioned elsewhere?

It's a huge deal if true.