Port Adelaide defender Trent McKenzie has put pen to paper and agreed to remain part of the Power for an additional year with his new contract expiring at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
McKenzie was part of the inaugural list for the Gold Coast Suns, playing 106 before being delisted and making the move to Port Adelaide in 2017. Since joining, he has added 57 games to his tally and now plays a crucial role alongside Aliir Aliir down back that has helped Port Adelaide reach new heights in 2023.
McKenzie was picked up by Gold Coast as a 17-year-old as one of 12 players that the Suns were allowed to roster prior to the team's debut. For most of the start of his AFL career, he played forward where he became famous for having one of the longest kicks in the league before transitioning into defence.
He reached his 150 games milestone in April of 2023 and hopes to build further on his six-year tenure at Port Adelaide.
McKenzie spoke with PortAdelaidefc.com.au on how excited he is to continue his career at Alberton.
"I'm stoked to be honest. Another year, another opportunity with a great group," McKenzie said.
"We are a young group but we've got some good older heads and we're one big family that I love being part of.
"I'm excited to stay around the group and lead the way where I can."
List Manager Jason Cripps voiced his opinion on the importance of the role McKenzie has played in defence and for the team.
"Trent is a highly valued member of our team due to his unique ability to compete and negate forwards above his size," Cripps said.
"His experience has been important when surrounded by some of our younger defenders this season, and his relaxed nature and sense of humour makes him a popular teammate."
Over his career, McKenzie has averaged 14.5 disposals, 2.2 tackles, 2.6 spoils, and 1.4 intercept marks.