ADELAIDE’S depth of father-son selections has been relatively thin over the years, but after Max Michalanney and Tyler Welsh landed at West Lakes recently, one more club-tied talent is in the offing in 2025. Mitchell Stevens is the name, the son of 101-game Crow and 1998 premiership player Mark.

Stevens impressed as a versatile defender in his bottom-age campaign, able to play small and tall with promising speed and rebound ability. A bumper preseason has him primed for more midfield minutes this time around. We chatted to the 17-year-old at the recent Coates Talent League preseason testing event.

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PRESEASON Q&A

Q: Mitch, can you give us a rundown into your footy journey and how you got started?

MS: I wasn’t allowed to play early on because Dad didn’t let me, but I started at Heyfield in  Under 10s I think. Won a flag in Under 12s, Covid happened and then I did my knee, which was a bit unfortunate. Now I’m playing for [Gippsland] Power and loving it.

Q: How much influence has your Dad had on your career?

MS: A fair bit. Always having chats after the game to see how I can improve, kicking with me, seeing what I can do different to improve myself. So, heaps. 

Q: Have you watched many of his highlights?

MS: There’s not too many of them, but I try to watch a couple of replays of games just to see how he goes.

Q: Are you an Adelaide fan?

MS: Adelaide and Saints. After all the things the Crows do for you, I guess you have to go for them.

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Q: How has your preseason been?

MS: I’ve only had a couple of full preseasons, so this one’s been pretty full on and I’ve loved it.

Q: What about your experience in the Vic Country hub?

MS: That was amazing. Getting to know all the Vic Country boys, elite coaching and just a very good environment to improve.

Q: How would you describe yourself as a player?

MS: Versatile [and] hard at it.

Q: What are some of your strengths?

MS: My speed. I like to burst away from the stoppages or just off my opponent. My kicking, and just versatility to play on anyone, any size.

Q: Are there any improvements you’re looking to make?

MS: Probably just getting my hands on the footy more and being more of a leader out on the field.

Q: Which player do you try and mould your game on?

MS: Probably Will Day at the minute, or Max Michalanney. I watch his game fairly heavily and like the way he plays. 

Q: What role do you expect to play this year?

MS: Mainly off the half-back due to last year, but hopefully I’ll move into the midfield this year. Maybe even the forwardline.

Q: Have you set any goals for the year?

MS: Getting drafted is the main one, but there’s little ones before that like making Vic Country and getting in the leadership group.

Q: Which teammate should we look out for to have a big season?

MS: Zach O’Keefe or Cody Templeton.

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