Checkside Chats – Episode 2

The latest episode of Checkside Chats, SANFL’s new fortnightly podcast is now live in the lead up to Sunday’s 2022 Hostplus SANFLW League Grand Final.

Zac Milbank chats with SANFLW Coach of the Year Michael O’Connor, as he prepares to guide Sturt in its inaugural title-decider appearance against minor premier North Adelaide at The Parade.

O’Connor, who was thrust into the role as Double Blues mentor just before Christmas, details the rapid rise of his side across the past five months after stepping up from his role as midfield coach.

It has been a patient build from within at Unley, as Sturt took the path of developing its own talent rather than recruit from other clubs.

Now O’Connor gives an insight into the impact young leaders Maya Rigter and Hannah Prenzler are having on the likes of 15-year-old India Rasheed, the daughter of tennis great Roger Rasheed.

Also in Episode 2, Torrens University SA U18 coach Tony Bamford steps into the studio to dissect the 2022 squad of 40 to play in this year’s NAB AFL National Championships.

Bamford discusses the selection dilemma being faced with an unprecedented 17 of the players standing at least 190cm, including West Adelaide trio Harry Lemmey, Tom Scully and Harry Barnett.

Revealing the battle for the No.1 ruck mantle is between Barnett and South Adelaide’s Will Verrall, Bamford also provided an insight into father-sons Max Michalanney, Mattaes Phillipou and Luca Slade.

This year, Bamford nominates two players to keep an eye on considering they have shown rapid improvement to be deserved selections in this year’s squad.