Footy is in Kaine’s Blood

By ZAC MILBANK

West Adelaide star Kaine Stevens has revealed he nearly pursued a career in Rugby League before settling on Australian Football as his sport of choice growing up in Canberra.

As he prepares to play his 100th Statewide Super League match against Port on Sunday, Stevens said he enjoyed playing both sports despite his wiry frame being more suited to footy.

Speaking on SANFL Radio, Stevens said he influence of his dad George played a significant role in his decision after ultimately playing at the same club – Queanbeyan Tigers – as his premiership winning father.

Stevens was then able to taste the ultimate success with the Tigers in 2012 before heading to City Mazda Stadium for the start of the 2014 season.

Since then, the 26-year-old midfielder has forged a reputation as one of SANFL’s most consistent performers, resulting in him earning West End State team selection for the past two seasons.

The 2015 drought-breaking premiership with Westies is ”right up there” with Stevens’ win at Queanbeyan, the emotion on the faces of fans and support staff still clear in his mind after the final siren on Grand Final day.

Now Stevens is preparing to roll up his sleeves and work hard through the centre square for the rest of the season as he helps usher through a new generation at Richmond in the wake of Will Snelling and John Noble departing through the AFL Mid-Season Draft.