The Western Bulldogs have added another young key defender to their list, after Cat Joel Hamling agreed to join the Club today.

Hamling was drafted by Geelong with pick 32 in the 2011 National Draft, after an impressive combine, ranking in the elite category for both the 20 metre sprint and running vertical jump.

The 21-year-old will complement the growing young group of defenders at the Kennel, and has the versatility to play forward, as shown early in his career.

List Manager Jason McCartney said it was part of the Club’s trade strategy to fill specific list requirements, and 194cm Hamling fitted the bill.

“Getting in another key defender was important for us, and Joel adds a different dynamic to that group with his raw athleticism,” McCartney said.

“Joel has been part of an elite development program at Geelong, and having watched closely throughout the year, we believe he is not far away from playing good consistent AFL football.”

Hamling joins Tom Boyd (GWS), Zaine Cordy (F/S) and Shane Biggs (Sydney) as new faces at the Club.