North Melbourne midfielder Jaidyn Stephenson has had his exceptional 2021 season recognised with a place in the AFL’s 22Under22 side.
Stephenson’s selection in the fan-voted team speaks volumes about his ability to adapt to not only a new midfield role, but also a new club, having joined North at the start of the year.
Posting career-high averages of 19.4 disposals and 1.6 clearances per game, ’Stevo’ relished the opportunity to move onto the ball more than ever before, but didn’t lose his knack for kicking big goals.
His two best performances in a North jumper this season both came in wins, with his 24 disposal, 3 goal effort against Carlton in Round 19 only being outdone by a 38 touch masterclass against the Eagles two weeks prior.
Jack Ziebell says the way Stephenson has applied himself throughout the season means he is more than deserving of the recognition.
“He’s come across unbelievably well, he’s fitted into our group extremely well. He’s an unbelievable guy who’s very loveable,” Ziebell told North Media.
“I think the best part of ‘Stevo’ is everyone can see what he can do on the footy field.
“Coming into our team he’s been able to get up the ground a little bit more and play some really, really important roles in some big games for us.”
