Neville Jetta

Neville Jetta, a former Australian rules footballer, left a lasting impact during his time with the Melbourne Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Jetta's journey in the AFL began when he was drafted by Melbourne as the 51st pick in the 2008 national draft. Prior to joining Melbourne, he showcased his skills with Swan Districts in the West Australian Football League (WAFL) and even earned the Mel Whinnen Medal for his outstanding performance in the Swans colts grand final win in September 2008. Throughout his career, Jetta displayed versatility and resilience. Despite facing challenges during the 2013 AFL season which led to his delisting, he seized the opportunity to return to the team after being redrafted as a rookie in 2014. Jetta's standout performances as a small defender in Melbourne's backline highlighted his ability to neutralize some of the league's top small forwards, including Eddie Betts, Chad Wingard, and Luke Dahlhaus. Off the field, Jetta's contributions extended beyond the game. In 2018, he was honored with the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award for his dedication to supporting Indigenous youth through school-based programs and his advocacy roles with organizations like Red Cross and Headspace. Jetta's commitment to community service and leadership was truly commendable, earning him recognition as the first Melbourne Football Club player to receive this prestigious award named in memory of the legendary Jim Stynes. After announcing his retirement from the AFL in September 2021, Jetta's passion for the game continues as he transitions into a new role as a development coach with the Collingwood team. Neville Jetta's legacy both on and off the field serves as a testament to his resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the sport and community.