TV footy reporter Mark Stevens has quit Channel 7 to work for the Liberal Party

Footy journalist Mark Stevens has made the shock call to quit TV to take up the hardest job in Victorian politics.

Channel 7 chief football reporter Mark Stevens will quit journalism for a stint in politics.

Stevens has been hired as the new Media Manager for the Victorian Liberal Party as it bolsters its team ahead of the 2022 state election.

Channel 7 staff were advised of the move on Thursday.

In an email sent to Channel 7 staff, seen by the Herald Sun, Stevens said: “It’s a sport of a different kind, and I have been fascinated by politics all my life. Politics, in the Covid era, has never been more fascinating. The timing is perfect. Bring it on.”

Stevens joined the network as chief football reporter in 2012 after 14 years at the Herald Sun.

The Liberal Party has been on the hunt for a senior media professional to join the team after former Channel 9 reporter Tineka Everaardt quit earlier this year.

Channel 7's Mark Stevens is quitting to join politics.

The party has been encouraged by exclusive polling out this week which showed a five per cent swing against the government.

Some MPs are now confident that swing could increase, but say much is dependent on the performance of the Liberal Party.

“We have to show we are united, and ready to govern,” one senior source said.

It is hoped the appointment of Stevens, who will report to Director of Communications Mitch Grayson, could help consolidate the party’s key messaging.

The move comes after Stevens last month revealed his shock bowel cancer diagnosis.

The father of two had surgery to remove the affected area in late March and after being told it was stage one, avoided further treatment.

Stevens will start in the role on July 12.

Originally published as TV footy reporter Mark Stevens has quit Channel 7 to work for the Liberal Party