As the AFL season continues, I sat down with Jai Stevens, a competitive football player for Chelsea Heights FC to find out more about the Aussie sport we all love. From playing since he was 12 years old and supporting North Melbourne FC, he lives and breathes AFL. Read the interview to hear more about his lifestyle, diet and training routine.
Hi Jai! Tell me a bit about yourself and how you got into playing AFL.
I have been playing competitive Australian football since I was 12 years old, currently representing Chelsea Heights F.C. I play as utility player as a key defender/forward and Ruckman through rotations. I support the North Melbourne Kangaroos and my hero is the former premiership captain Wayne Carey as I consider him to be the best player in the history of the game in terms of ability to influence a game. I love that the sport is indigenous to Australia and the game itself is one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. Not only are you required to have elite cardio abilities but also be able to incorporate strength and strategy.What are your predictions for the season ahead?
Chelsea Heights are in a good position financially and as such have been able to recruit heavily in the off season and we are striving for a premiership. The seniors are 1-1 with the reserves being undefeated, so both on track. North Melbourne are the only undefeated team in the National completion, with the most experienced team in the league. The past two years we have surpassed public expectations and made the preliminary final, I am expecting and praying we take it a step further and contend on Grand Final day.How do you prepare for a game?
For AFL football recovery is essential and is incorporated into our training each week, but it’s also up to the individual if they are sore or injured to do the appropriate recovery externally to the football environment i.e. baths, beach, pools and gym. Training is two evenings a week with game day on Saturday. Training during the season revolves around maintaining a fitness base created during preseason and also injury management, prevention and recovery. A lot of cardio based training and ball skills through the season. Post-game recovery normally entails stretches, ice bath and a few beers with the boys.How do you adapt your diet during the season to ensure you're on top form?
Carb loading is essential at the higher levels due to the extensive running required. At lower levels the expectation is still to have the appropriate diet but I think you'll find there is less hyper focus on it and probably a few more beers that go around. At the higher levels post-game is generally when you will find players indulging in maybe a beer and pizza, but no during the week for pre-game preparation or pre-season. It really is up to the individual and their dedication.What are your aspirations for the future? Do you have any tips for players wanting to work harder?
The all elusive premiership is my focus at this stage, I have found that I played my best football when I was 100% dedicated, not drinking during the week, eating low fat foods as much as possible and doing more than bare minimum in terms of training. For people that aren't naturally gifted, AFL is a sport where work ethic and dedication can get you just as far as naturally gifted individuals, so if you want to excel it really needs to be your focus not just game day but majority of your time.Join UNiDAYS® Now For Free Student Discount
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