Experienced ruckman Stefan Martin has joined the Western Bulldogs.

The 33-year-old joins the Bulldogs from the Brisbane Lions on a one-year deal, as part of a three-way trade with the Lions and North Melbourne.

Martin has played 190 games across his 13 seasons with the Lions and Melbourne, including eight games – and two finals – in 2020.

The durable big man had missed just four games across five seasons, prior to this year.

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“Stef is an important acquisition for our football club and we’re delighted to have him on board,” General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power, said.

“We wanted to bring in an experienced ruckman this off-season to bolster our squad and Stef certainly fits that description.

“He has been a very good player for a long period of time and we know what he will bring on the field.

“We’re also excited by the prospect of him working with our emerging ruckmen, Tim English and Jordon Sweet, to help them develop into the best players they can be.”

Martin joins the Kennel in exchange for emerging defender Lachie Young, who had requested a trade to the Kangaroos.

“Lachie has shown some promising signs over the past two seasons and we wish him all the best for the opportunity ahead of him at North Melbourne,” Power said. 

Young and the Lions’ pick 70 move to the Kangaroos, with the Lions receiving pick 63 from the Kangaroos.