05/03/2026
One player we've had the pleasure of dealing with at Central Vic Footy Player Management is Ben Darrou. A Best & Fairest Winner with the Tatura Bulldogs in his first season and a former Richmond rookie we caught up with a chat him.
Welcome Benny, firstly give us a bit of an insight into your Pre-Season living away from the playing group at Tatura?✔
The majority of our Melbourne-based boys have been training with Heidelberg, which is fantastic for the group. Unfortunately, due to work commitments I haven’t been able to get down there, so most of my sessions have been done solo or with a couple of mates locally. I focus on building my running base, keeping my skills sharp and getting in some good sessions in the gym so I can handle the rigors of a season.
There seems to be a strong level of optimism that the Dogs can break through and bank some wins in 2026 and generally be more competitive. Why do you think the Club is better placed to perform this year?✔
Civa has brought a great energy to the group and there’s a noticeable shift in the atmosphere around the squad this year. That positive change in mindset is a great foundation for becoming more competitive. On top of that, the club has recruited really well, which adds depth across the ground and strengthens the overall side. There’s genuine belief that we can take a step forward.
What Practice Match hit outs do the Bulldogs have in the lead up to the Season proper? ✔
The boys had an intra club last week, and a practice game against Numurkah this. We’ll then take part in the Gather Round weekend at Yarrawonga, which I’m really looking forward to, before our final hit out against Murchison leading into the season.
Prior to arriving at Tatura Park you played several Seasons at Collegians in the VAFA. What comparisons do you make about how playing in the VAFA is compared to the landscape of Country Football? ✔
The style of footy is quite different. The VAFA was generally more contested and structured, whereas country football — particularly in the GVL — tends to be more free-flowing, partly due to the larger grounds we play on. I’d say the top-end talent is comparable, but the VAFA probably has greater depth overall given the larger player pool available to those clubs.
You've also had an adventure this Summer playing a couple of games in the NTFL with the Palmertson Magpies. How did you enjoy that?✔
I was lucky enough to play three games with Palmerston, and it was an incredible experience. Territory footy has such a unique feel and style, and I really enjoyed being part of it. Hopefully I can get back up there next season to play a few more games and explore more of the Top End.
When you look back at your time at the Tigers as a Rookie a long time ago now are you content that you gave it your best shot while you were there? & How do you reflect on the experience overall?✔
It was over ten years ago now, which has flown by. It was an amazing experience, and I met some incredible people who I learned a great deal from. I genuinely gave it my best shot and was able to play some strong football at VFL level, but I just wasn’t able to make the jump to senior level. Looking back, I’m proud of the effort I put in and grateful for the opportunity.
Outside of Football your employed in the Finance industry give us an insight into your role? & provide the readers with a money tip if you can?✔
As of the end of March, I’ll be a fully qualified Financial Adviser after passing my adviser exam last year. My role involves working with individuals and families to build wealth creation strategies and ensure they’re on track to achieve their long-term financial goals.
There’s no groundbreaking money tip — but as a general rule just start with understanding exactly how much you’re spending. Having clarity around your cash flow is the foundation for making better financial decisions and building from there.
You've played a straight bat let us know when the big investment tip comes through! All the Best for a big 2026 Season with the Bulldogs. ✔ ( Picture credit News.com)
