Former Victor Harbor star Jesse McKinnon joins St Peter’s Old Collegians

A former SANFL midfielder and dual Mail Medallist has joined a division one Adelaide Footy League club in a major move ahead of season 2025.

A former SANFL midfielder and dual Mail Medallist has left his hometown club to join a division one Adelaide Footy League outfit for season 2025.

Jesse McKinnon, who played League football for South Adelaide from 2017 to 2021, has joined St Peter’s Old Collegians after three dominant seasons with Victor Harbor.

The star big-bodied midfielder was a standout for the Roos during his tenure with the club, winning the last two GSFL Mail Medals and falling one-point short of a historic premiership against Myponga-Sellicks in this year’s grand final.

A teacher at Concordia College, McKinnon said remaining at Victor Harbor was unrealistic for his young family.

Star SPOC signing Jesse McKinnon with coach Mike O'Leary. Picture: SPOC Football Club

“I’ve grown up in Victor Harbor my whole life but my wife and I have our second child due in about four weeks and everything for us is in Adelaide so I decided it would be easier to remain in the city for my footy,” McKinnon said.

“It was a really tough decision, I absolutely loved my time at Victor Harbor alongside lots of close mates.

“We all had a close bond and unfortunately just fell short in the grand final this year but that’s footy.

“I’m really keen to start at SPOC – I’ve got some mates and a family connection at the club and I’m looking forward to the challenge of division one.”

McKinnon won two Mail Medals during his time with Victor Harbor. Picture: Victor Harbor Football Club

One of the Adelaide Footy League’s strongest clubs, St Peter’s OC has struggled in division one in recent seasons but has managed to stay in the top tier under coach Mike O’Leary.

McKinnon’s arrival could be a turning point for O’Leary’s young side and the key signing said he was excited to slot into the midfield.

“As far as what I’ll bring on the park, I think my contested work stands out and my ability to use my body weight to get the ball out,” McKinnon said.

“We’ve got a really young squad at Saints and I’m looking forward to joining the midfield and also bringing some leadership and experience.”

McKinnon in action for South Adelaide. Picture: Sarah Reed

While McKinnon remains hungry for the ultimate success after falling short at Victor Harbor, he said he wanted to help Saints progress up the ladder first and foremost.

“They really went to work on their structures and roles last season to develop the side and have a couple wins to save themselves from relegation which is a great sign.

“Hopefully we can continue to improve next season, see development in the young guys and continue to bring in some players who can help out as well.

“We want to have a crack at playing finals and going all the way.”