Alumni Manager Brad Fisher caught up with former former Brisbane Bear and Adelaide Crow – Mark Mickan, in the inaugural edition of “Blast from the past”.
Brad Fisher: How old are you?
Mark Mickan: I’m 52
BF: What have you been up to since you retired from AFL football?
MM: I have been fortunate enough to have stayed heavily involved with footy since retiring. Immediately following my playing days I spent five years at the Crows in varying coaching roles and was fortunate enough to have been an assistant coach for the 1997 flag. I then coached Woodville West Torrens in the SANFL for a couple years in 98 and 99 before returning to the crows for another five years as an assistant coach. I spent 2005 part-time at the Power as their ruck coach, while studying Psychology full-time, before moving back to the SANFL and coaching Glenelg from 2006 until 2011. In 2012 I returned to West Adelaide (where I had played previously) taking on the role of Football Manager, and right now I’m teaching Phys Ed at St. Michael’s College and doing some recruiting for the Geelong Football Club which I am thoroughly enjoying.
BF: What do you miss the most about playing elite football?
MM: I certainly miss being in better physical condition, and also the mateship and camaraderie you get from playing Australian Rules football – this is something you cannot replicate once your playing days are over.
BF: Do you keep in contact with many former team mates?
MM: I’m very fortunate that my involvement in football has enabled me to continue many friendships from my playing days. Also, reunions are always very important to me and something I very much look forward to. The memories and good times former teammates share makes for some great conversation and reminiscing.
BF: Who is the best player you have seen?
MM: I would have to say Gary Ablett Senior – the things he would do on a regular basis were simply a pleasure to watch and impossible to coach; speed, strength, agility… a gifted athlete and gifted footballer.
BF: What was the highlight of your career?
MM: Playing at the highest level against the best big men in the country. I wasn’t a gun junior by any stretch, so when I made it to the top level I just loved the challenge every week. I can honestly look back and say I loved every minute of it.
BF: How often are you still recognised?
MM: Oh quite often. My kids, my partner and most of my family members recognise me at first glance.
BF: Do you have children? Is there any talent there?
MM: Yes. I have two boys, Fletcher 5 & Spencer 1.Fletcher has just started Auskick this year and he’s been really enjoying it. If they move a bit better than their dad, that’ll be a good start.
BF: Do you enjoy the modern game?
MM: I really do. When it’s played with an attacking spirit with an honest defensive action it showcases well. I believe the absolute best teams, like the Cats, play a good, attacking, confident brand of football, whilst applying great pressure to the opposition.
BF: When was the last time you worked out in the gym?
MM: Depends what you call a work out. I did back to back sessions in the gym a little over a year ago. It would be fair to say I’m due for another workout. I do play tennis each week with a few mates.
BF: Who is your favourite musician?
MM: I really enjoy Van Morrison’s Music.
BF: What’s on your bucket list?
MM: To be a good father to my children and to continue my passion and involvement in football.
BF: What’s next for Mark Mickan?
MM: Hopefully it involves using my knowledge and experience to move into full time recruiting in the AFL.
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