Australian Football

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Key Facts

Full name
Michael Charles Mitchell

Known as
Michael Mitchell

Born
25 November 1961 (age 62)

Place of birth
Carnarvon, WA (6701)

Ethnicity
Indigenous Australian

Age at first & last AFL game
First game: 25y 124d
Last game: 29y 272d

Height and weight
Height: 172 cm
Weight: 66 kg

Senior clubs
Claremont; Richmond; Australia

Jumper numbers
Richmond: 7

State of origin
WA

Michael Mitchell

ClubLeagueCareer spanGamesGoalsAvgWin %AKIAHBAMKBV
ClaremontWAFL1982-1986881341.52
RichmondV/AFL1987-1991811031.2730%10.287.903.7323
AustraliaIR1987, 1990600.00
Total1982-19911752371.35

AFL: 9,794th player to appear, 2,985th most games played, 1,046th most goals kickedRichmond: 890th player to appear, 207th most games played, 73rd most goals kicked

Although diminutive in stature at just 172 cm and 66 kg, Michael Mitchell was probably renowned above all else for his spectacular aerial ability, a legacy of his prodigious leap and great timing. He also had blistering pace, particularly over the vital first five metres, and kicked many fine goals on the run. 

Originally from Carnarvon, he made his WAFL debut with Claremont in 1982, and two years later shared the Sandover Medal with team mate Steve Malaxos and East Perth's Peter Spencer. He made the first of an eventual eight interstate appearances for Western Australia in 1983, and was named an All Australian in 1985 and 1986. 

In 1987, unsure of whether he would gain a spot on the West Coast Eagles inaugurial VFL list, he signed instead with Richmond, and over the ensuing five years endeared himself to Tiger fans by his tenacious approach to the ball, coupled with spectacular leaps and runs - exemplified by him winning both the mark and goal of the year in 1990. But a series of head injuries took their toll, and Mitchell was eventually forced into retirement several years earlier than would otherwise have been the case.

Author - John Devaney with additional material from Adam Cardosi

Sources

Full Points Footy's WA Football Companion

Footnotes

* Behinds calculated from the 1965 season on.
+ Score at the end of extra time.