Adelaide first-year defender Max Michalanney says his parents couldn't be happier to have their son be part of the Crows' side for at least another two years.
Michalanney, who last year became Adelaide's first father-son selection at an AFL National Draft, put pen to paper on a new deal, keeping him at the Club until at least the end of 2026.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday after his contract extension was announced, the 19-year-old said his Crows-supporting family was keen to watch him continue his career at the Club he grew up barracking for.
“They were really excited, they are massive Crows fans and they have been their whole lives,” Michalanney said.
“It didn’t take too much convincing, I’ve loved my time at the club so far.
“For me to hang around for another two years, they were just as happy as I was.”
Michalanney was eligible to be drafted by the Crows under the AFL’s father-son rule after his father Jim played 211 games (including four premierships) with Norwood between 1974 and 1986.
The backman has enjoyed a blistering start to his AFL career and has been rewarded by playing every game since his debut in Round One.
Michalanney said his campaign so far had exceeded all his expectations and he was looking forward to what’s to come.
“Going into the start of the season I just wanted to play a single game so to play all the games so far has been a big achievement for me,” Michalanney said.
“I’m focusing on being consistent for the rest of the season and putting some good performances together.
“I love the boys, I love where we’re going (and) I’m really happy that the club has given me this opportunity.”
Crediting the support of his teammates for his breakout performance, Michalanney said one player in particular had taken him under his wing this season.
“Tom Doedee in particular has helped me out a lot and continues to do so,” Michalanney said.
“The boys have really helped me out a lot this year and we as a team play better when we are all looking after each other.
“When they announced it this morning in the team meeting, all the boys got around me and it makes you feel pretty special.”
Michalanney is among three other youngsters to have re-committed to the Crows in the past week, which he said was reflective of the optimism and excitement amongst the group.
“We all want to be here, and we all love where we are going at the moment,” Michalanney said.
“We are striving to win a premiership as soon as we can and there is a real good culture around the group at the moment.
“I feel like we have all got the talent and we are working really hard so fingers crossed we can get it done as soon as we can.”
