Pickett’s top end to tough year

KYSAIAH Pickett’s 2021 season started with the devastating loss of two close family members, but ended with a special AFL premiership win in his adopted home state.

The 20-year-old dedicated his premiership medal to his late mother and pop after Melbourne thrashed the Western Bulldogs in the grand final.

Pickett had two “mums” when he was growing up – birth mother Olivia and “old mum” Rebecca, whose death he was mourning when he was granted permission to return to WA in February.

“My mum and my pop passed away, so basically everything I do is for them and for my family,” Pickett said.

Pickett was born in South Australia but spent his formative years in Quairading, so considers himself a West Australian. He moved back to SA as a 15-year-old to live with his uncle Byron, a dual premiership player and Norm Smith medallist.

“Being back home in WA is pretty special,” Pickett said.

“It means a lot to myself and my family. Uncle Byron as well, he’s here.”