Amateur star may be given lifeline

FORMER West Coast defender Mitch Brown could secure an AFL lifeline after an outstanding season playing amateur football at St Kevin’s.

Brown moved from a key defensive role into the midfield in the second half of the season and finished runner-up in the VAFA best and fairest.

He was also best on ground in the Premier division grand final as St Kevin’s won the flag.

His form has attracted interest from recruiters, prompting the 195cm utility to nominate for next month’s draft.

Brown, from Ballarat, was hit by injury in his nine years and 94 games at West Coast, including two left knee reconstructions and, last season, a torn finger tendon.

But Brown, 28, said this year had helped rekindle his love of the game and he would relish another AFL opportunity.

“This year was one of the most enjoyable years of footy I have had, and I think the midfield role in the back half of the season really gave me a new lease on life,” he said.

“I have loved my move back to Melbourne and I’m really content with everything. If I don’t get another chance (at AFL), that’s fine, I love my job.

“But then I did get told there may a few people interested and some clubs interested, and so I had a chat to (my partner) Shae about it.

“If I had the opportunity to play pro football again, I know how amazing that would be, and I would give it everything.

“I reckon I can play a role off-field as well with club culture and leadership around the young guys and mentoring.”

St Kevin’s football manager, Collingwood premiership player Michael Christian, said Brown “had blossomed moving into the midfield”.

“I was surprised he wasn’t picked up last year, but I would be shocked if he wasn’t on clubs’ radars now,” he said.