Port Adelaide Confirms SSP Selections
Port Adelaide has officially added Balyn O'Brien and Mitch Zadow to its roster through the pre-season supplemental selection period (SSP). The club selected O'Brien and Zadow, opting not to sign former No. 6 pick Jaidyn Stephenson or former Geelong midfielder Ted Clohesy.
The club's decision sees two promising talents join the ranks, following their efforts during the pre-season.
New Faces in the Roster
Balyn O'Brien, a 19-year-old defender, brings recent SANFL experience to the team. He played in six SANFL games for Norwood last year, demonstrating his capabilities at a senior level.
Mitch Zadow, 21, hails from East Fremantle and has a strong record in the WAFL. He has played 21 WAFL games and kicked an impressive 20 goals, with 12 of those occurring in his final seven games last season.
List Manager Jason Cripps on the Selections
Port list manager Jason Cripps emphasized the dedication of the new recruits, stating that both players "have worked very hard to earn this opportunity."
Cripps provided specific praise for Mitch Zadow, noting he was monitored in the latter half of last year. Cripps commended his clean ball handling, consistent goal-kicking, and a blend of power and work rate in the forward line, coupled with a strong defensive intent.
Regarding Balyn O'Brien, Cripps highlighted his consistent performance in the SANFL under 18s and national championships. This led to his inclusion and retention in the Norwood league side through the finals. Cripps described O'Brien as having sound defensive instincts, being challenging to play against, and possessing the physical attributes to defend various player types, also demonstrating strength in aerial contests.
Cripps also extended his gratitude to those who trained with the team but were not selected, thanking Jaidyn Stephenson, Ted Clohesy, and Blake Oudshoorn-Bennier for their efforts during the pre-season.