Melbourne Rebels announce signing of Jake Strachan and Ethan Dobbins

Melbourne Rebels have announced the signing of Jake Strachan and Ethan Dobbins ahead of the 2024 season.

Strachan, who can play at fly-half and fullback has signed a one-year deal with the club. Having made his professional rugby debut with Brisbane City in 2016, he made a switch to Force in 2019 and has featured in 28 matches for the club scoring 48 points.

"I think the Rebels are building something special down in Melbourne,” said Strachan to the club's official website.

“They’ve built a great squad with a strong coaching staff, so I’m looking forward to learning and growing my game and doing my job as best as I can for the team.”

“I’ve really enjoyed watching the Rebels from afar - they play a fast, expansive, attacking playing style and that’s exactly how I like to play my footy, so I’m super pumped to get to Melbourne and get stuck in.”

Meanwhile, Dobbins, who has signed a two-year deal with the club has been an integral member of a Wests Bulldogs program that has reached the Hospital Challenge Cup Final the past two seasons. In 2021, he was presented the prestigious Bob Wood Trophy.

“Joining the Rebels was an easy decision for me,” said Dobbins.

“After coming down last December and meeting the players and coaches, I’m more than confident that this is the best environment for me to thrive in.

“I believe the relationships I’ve formed with a number of the Rebels’ boys at Wests through the years will only add to the brotherhood and culture I’m hoping to be a part of at the Rebels next year.

“I love the City of Melbourne and the culture the Rebels are building coming into 2024, so I can’t wait to get started.”