After two opportunity starved years at Greater Western Sydney, Jack Steele thrived in his first season at St Kilda, demonstrating why the club was so keen to secure his services last October.
The 21-year-old played all but two games in 2017, where he averaged 22.1 disposals, 10.5 contested possessions, 7.9 tackles (No. 3 in the AFL), 3.9 clearances and 63.8 pressure points (No. 3).
With so much quality and depth in the harbour city, Steele grasped his opportunity at St Kilda, establishing himself as one of the best pressure players in the game, alongside the likes of Scott Selwood, Dayne Zorko, Rory Sloane and Matt Priddis.
He amassed eight or more tackles on 10 occasions this year, including five
While the defensive side of Steele’s game this season was elite, there were times when the Saints wanted more offensively. He was sent back to Sandringham after Round
After spending the first half of his maiden pre-season in the rehabilitation group following a foot injury, Steele is set to arrive at the starting line this November ready for a full summer on the track.
Performance of the year:
Round 20 v West Coast at Etihad Stadium: 26 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 12 tackles, 10 clearances and 76.5 pressure points
Alan Richardson's views:
“I thought Jack had a great first year at our footy club,” Richardson said.
“He earned the respect of his teammates through the selfless nature of his play, especially his ability to relentlessly apply pressure on the opposition.
“We think Jack can take his game to the next level by finding more of the ball in future. He had some games where he was able to put some pressure back on the opposition through his own
“Given Jack missed a large portion of
The numbers:
20 games
22.1 disposals
63.8 pressure points
10.5 contested possessions
7.9 tackles
3.9 clearances
