Collingwood have bolstered their ruck stocks by adding West Adelaide teenager Oscar Steene to their rookie list. The Magpies were thin in that area after offloading first-choice ruckman Brodie Grundy in last year's trade period. That decision, which eased salary cap pressure, left Darcy Cameron, Mason Cox and youngster Aiden Begg at coach Craig McRae's disposal. The acquisition of 201cm prospect Steene adds depth to the ruck department. The 19-year-old has trained with Collingwood since November and was told on Monday he had earnt himself a contract. "Oscar filled a position of need and has fitted into our environment seamlessly," Collingwood football boss Graham Wright said in a statement. "He has shown a good ability to learn and improve his craft, and his self-development is getting better day-by-day. "We believe Oscar could play a key role in our AFL program this year and into the future." Cameron played 24 of a possible 25 games last season, with Grundy missing most of the campaign through injury. The 27-year-old will likely lead the Magpies' ruck in 2023 but is currently on light duties after straining a hamstring at training last week. Cameron is expected to be fit to take part in pre-season fixtures before Collingwood's round-one battle with reigning premiers Geelong on March 17. Grundy joined Melbourne and is set to form an imposing ruck combination with Demons captain Max Gawn. Australian Associated Press
