SANFL youngsters Max Michalanney and Max Litster win Talent Program MVP after state dominance

Two South Australian draft hopefuls have taken out a prestigious SANFL award after impressive seasons at state level.

A pair of South Australian footy young guns performing to the max have capped off their brilliant 2021 seasons with SANFL Talent Program MVP wins.

Both Max Michalanney and Max Litster impressed at club and state level in the AFL under-19 championships and were rewarded for their efforts by the SANFL.

Michalanney, son of Norwood legend Jim, showed significant development as a key defender for the Redlegs, Rostrevor College and South Australia, and was thrilled to be recognised as MVP for players aged 17 and under.

Rostrevor College and Norwood rising star Max Michalanney with his dad Jim. The young champion looks set to make his mark on the AFL stage in the near future. Picture: Matt Turner

“It’s a massive privilege and honour to first of all represent my state and then to also win MVP is something I’m very happy with,” Michalanney said.

“It’s always difficult playing at that level for South Australia against a lot of really good players from around the country but I think I played better than what I expected.”

Michalanney has set himself apart from defenders in his age group across the state this year, dominating down back for Rostrevor College under James Allan and continuing his form in the SANFL.

The 17-year-old can lockdown his opponent and also leave his man with great instinct to take intercept marks and begin rebound inside 50 entries.

“I felt like as the season went on I got better and better. I had a really good school season with my mates at Rostrevor and managed to also perform at Norwood and then be lucky enough to represent the state,” Michalanney said.

“All my coaches and teammates have helped me a lot in my development and I’m very grateful.”

Max Michalanney brings the ball out of defence for Rostrevor. He had an exceptional year at college, SANFL and state level. Picture: Brenton Edwards

For Eagles SANFL reserves player and under-19 SANFL Talent Program MVP Litster, the season couldn’t have been more enjoyable.

The 19-year-old halfback from the Yorke Peninsula played strongly for the Eagles and was dominant in his debut league game in round 19 with 23 touches.

He also performed consistently for SA throughout the season, namely in the final under-19 win against WA where he took control across halfback.

“I’ve loved my time out at the Eagles this year. I was happy with how I managed to develop and I think the coaches were too,” Litster said.

Eagles' Max Litster (left) celebrates a goal for the reserves. His performances for his club and for SA earned him major recognition from the SANFL. Picture: Hannah Howard/SANFL

“I felt like I had a consistent season for South Australia too and played some of my best footy.

“Having such elite coaching and players at Eagles and also for SA, I was just picking their brains all year to help improve my game and I think it paid dividends.”

After such a strong year, Litster is now hopeful of being picked up in next month’s AFL draft.

“I’m not losing hope about the dream of playing AFL. It may not be this year but more and more recruits in their 20s are getting picked up,” he said.

Michalanney is not eligible for this year’s draft, but will be among the best SA prospects for next year if he continues to perform at college, SANFL and state level.