Draft
Kalani White has joined the Dees as a pre-selected rookie under the father son rule.
KALANI White is set to continue the Melbourne legacy left by his dad Jeff, joining the Dees as a pre-selected rookie under the father son rule.
The son of former Demon ruck Jeff White, Kalani is highly regarded for his aerial presence, athleticism and versatility, allowing him to play both in the ruck and up forward.
Standing at 201cm tall, he kicked two goals on debut for the Casey Demons earlier this year, one of two games the son of a gun played for Melbourne’s VFL affiliate.
Earlier this year, White nominated the Dees as his preferred club – having also played for the Sun’s Academy. National Recruiting Manager Jason Taylor said at the time of nomination that he was excited by the opportunity to develop the young ruck.
“Kalani is obviously someone we’ve been following for some time, and we’re delighted that he has chosen us,” Jason Taylor said.
“His versatility is a standout; he has shown positive development at both ends of the ground, as well as in the ruck. Combined with his athleticism, we’re excited by his future growth.
“The way Kalani is progressing in his footy is really impressive, and that’s credit to him and the amount of work he has put in.”
Jeff White played 236 games in the red and blue, having come to the Dees after 32 games for Fremantle. Across his career he tallied 113 goals, earning an All-Australian jacket in 2004 alongside a club best and fairest.