Southport have signalled their intentions clearly to rival QAFL clubs by signing former Zillmere Eagles Grogan Medallist Matt Payne for the 2010 season
Payne a member of the losing Sturt SANFL Grand Final side has decided to return to the Sunshine State after a season in Adelaide which saw him play 14 senior games including four finals
Prior to his departure from the QAFL Payne was clearly the premier midfielder in the competition over a number of years winning the 2006 Grogan and Zane Taylor Medals as well as a number of top three finishes in the States highest individual award
He left Queensland after the 2008 season along with fellow Zillmere Eagle Jake Myles who was recently announced as Best and Fairest in the Reserve Grade for Sturt
Payne missed a portion of the season through a knee injury but finished the year off strongly and will certainly add to the Sharks midfield rotations
It is believed the Sharks headed off a number of rival QAFL clubs for Payne’s signature and the two year deal was confirmed yesterday by Southport Football Manager Jason Cotter
On the flipside three Southport midfielders in Jason Burge, Fraser Pope, and Justin Kahlefeldt are believed to be contemplating a move south to try out with VFL powerhouse Port Melbourne coached by former Hawthorn great Gary Ayres
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