2018 Rising Star Jaidyn Stephenson has been revealed as the latest marquee acquisition made by North Ringwood, in Melbourne's EFNL.
Stephenson, now 27 years of age, will ply his trade for the Saints in Melbourne's outer-eastern suburbs, after failing in his latest bid for an AFL lifeline.
Pick 6 in the 2017 National Draft, Stephenson truly burst onto the scene, starring in Collingwood's fabled 2018 campaign - one that, if not for the most sublime finish of Dom Sheed's career, would have seen the goalsneak claim a premiership in his debut season.
The wheels fell off from there, with a gambling suspension, the Covid pandemic, a move to the struggling Kangaroos and a loss of love for the game all populating the cult figure's short-lived AFL career after that über-promising arrival.
Stephenson retired from the elite level at the conclusion of the 2024 season, but has tried multiple avenues in the hopes of an AFL return since.
The forward was afforded an ultimately unsuccessful SSP audition at Port Adelaide, and toiled gallantly in the VFL this season, booting 49 majors from 18 goals for proud standalone club, Coburg.
The Saints took to social media to voice their pleasure with the acquisition of their man, after a special 2026 season. The tri-colours completed an undefeated season, earning promotion back into the EFNL's Premier Division on the back of the most dramatic of final-quarter comebacks in the Division 1 Grand Final.
"The Saints are stoked to welcome Jaidyn to North Ringwood for 2027," the club's Instagram post read.
"His football nous, experience at the highest level and ability to find goals will make him a valuable addition to our playing group as we prepare for the 2027 season.
"Welcome to North Ringwood, Jaidyn!!"
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