Michalanney is the son of Jim Michalanney who played 211 games and won 4 premierships with Norwood in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL).[1]
As a junior he progressed to play three senior games for Norwood in the SANFL. He previously played junior football for Glenunga Rams and school football for Rostrevor. Despite living in the Sturt development zone, he was able to join Norwood under the SANFL father son rule.[2] While representing South Australia in the National Championships he was rewarded for his consistency by winning All-Australian selection.[3]
AFL career
Michalanney was drafted by Adelaide with pick 17 of the 2022 national draft under the father–son rule, after they matched a bid by Sydney Swans.[4] He impressed in pre-season, including in a practice match against West Coast during which he limited Liam Ryan to 10 touches.[5] The following week, the club confirmed he would debut in the first round of the season.[6] He played his first game against Greater Western Sydney in Round 1 of the 2023 AFL season. He had 12 disposals in their disappointing loss.[7] In Round 4 of 2023, Michalanney had a strong defensive showing, collecting 16 disposals, was rewarded with five coach votes, and was praised by former player and coach Nathan Buckley.[8] In Round 5 of 2023, after a dominant display against Carlton in which he had 10 disposals and 4 marks, Michalanney was nominated for the 2023 AFL Rising Star.[9] Michalanney credited his good start to the season to his father's mantra,[10] which may have influenced his signature on a two-year contract[11] during Adelaide's bye round of 2023, securing him at the club until the end of 2026. Michalanney was the recipient of the Mark Bickley Emerging Talent Award in 2023, awarded to Adelaide's highest achieving player under the age of 21.[12]
2024 was a year of continued growth for Michalanney, who became a strong player in Adelaide's defence. He spent a small amount of time in Adelaide's midfield when star players were out of form, particularly in round 13 against Richmond. The move resulted in a career-best 25 disposals and 11 marks, but ultimately Michalanney returned down back. He found himself in strife when he escaped suspension after striking Hawthorn forward Nick Watson.[13] Michalanney's season was rewarded with a nomination in the 22under22 squad,[14] but failed to qualify for the final team. Michalanney finished fourth in the Malcolm Blight Medal in just his second season at AFL level.[15]
