Adelaide has announced their fourth re-signing in less than a week, with promising first-year defender Max Michalanney adding a further two years to his contract with the Crows.
Michalanney joined the South Australian side as a first-round draft selection last year as their first-ever father-son selection, with his father Jim's decorated career with SANFL side Norwood opening the door for a priority move to West Lakes.
The 19-year-old has been a sensation for the in-form Crows across his maiden campaign, playing in all 13 matches so far this season as a formidable lockdown defender.
Michalanney, who is averaging 10.38 disposals, 3.69 marks and 3.62 tackles per game, expressed his delight in recommitting to the club.
โI've loved my time at the Club so far, obviously the team is going really well and it would be nice to push deep into finals in coming years,โ he said.
โAll the boys have helped me out a lot in my first season so it's a big thanks to them, the coaching staff and strength and conditioning guys who have helped me develop.โ
Already signed until the end of 2024, Michalanney has added a further two years onto his rookie contract to now be locked in until 2026.
The teenager's fresh signing adds to a busy period of retention announcements for the Crows, who re-signed young trio Chayce Jones, Jake Soligo and Harry Schoenberg in recent days.
โWe knew we were getting a talented player and a quality young man when we drafted Max and we are delighted with how quickly he has developed at AFL level,โ Adelaide list manager Justin Reid said.
โHe's tough and super competitive and shown he can play on a range of opponents, and Nicksy has given him some big jobs this year on some of the most dangerous forwards in the competition.
โHe is a very important part of what we are building at Adelaide and we are thrilled he's signed on through to 2026.โ
The Crows are also murmured to be near a new deal for 2021 first-round draftee Josh Rachele.
