New Zealand-born Mykelti Lefau is poised to make his AFL debut this Sunday. Representing the Richmond Tigers, he’ll take his place on the interchange bench, showcasing his skills as a utility player against Port Adelaide at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This game marks the second round of the competition and is a significant milestone for Lefau, who transitioned to Melbourne from Auckland with initial aspirations in rugby league.
Lefau’s journey to the AFL began over a decade ago, and his recent performance in a Richmond VFL practice match against Carlton, where he scored two goals, has highlighted his exceptional form. Richmond’s VFL coach, Steve Morris, praised Lefau’s ability to transfer his training prowess into the game, noting his competitive edge both in aerial contests and ground-level pressure.
Lefau’s inclusion in the Richmond squad comes after being signed as an AFL rookie just a month ago. His rise to the senior team, especially during the Pre-Season Supplementary Selection Period, is a testament to his hard work and the support of his family and friends, who have been instrumental in his journey.
Despite facing a significant setback with an ACL injury in the 2022 season, Lefau’s resilience and determination saw him return to the field in the latter half of the 2023 VFL season, continuing to demonstrate his potential and growth in the sport.
Richmond Tigers, a team with a rich history and home to another player of Kiwi descent, Dustin Martin, look to Lefau to bring fresh energy and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming matches. The anticipation for Lefau’s debut adds excitement for Richmond fans and offers a new chapter in Lefau’s sporting career.
