Golden Square signs Cheatley Medal winner Ryan Hartley for 2027 comeback
Midfielder Ryan Hartley will play for his junior club Golden Square next season after coaching North Bendigo to a 2026 premiership.
Ryan Hartley is returning to Golden Square for the 2027 Bendigo league season. The 28-year-old midfielder left the club after their 2023 grand final win over Sandhurst, joining North Bendigo as assistant coach in 2024.
Ryan Hartley stepped up to co-coach North Bendigo in 2025 and 2026, winning a premiership this year alongside Rob Bennett. Hartley also won the HDFNL Cheatley Medal this year with 32 votes.
Golden Square has invested in young players over the past two seasons and finished seventh in 2026. Hartley said he still has at least a couple more years of Bendigo footy left in him and wants to play at his home club.
He played 88 senior games for Golden Square and was among the club's best in the 2023 grand final with 18 disposals, seven clearances and a goal.
- 32
- Cheatley Medal votes
- 88
- Senior games for Golden Square
- 28
- Player age
- Seventh
- Golden Square finishing position 2026
Why it mattersReturning experience and success helps young clubs rebuild. Hartley brings a premiership pedigree and leadership to a rebuilding Golden Square.
AustraliaGolden Square gets its first major recruitment for 2027 and adds experience to a young list, aiming to climb the Bendigo league ladder after recent lower finishes.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
