Beach a power of comfort for Jasper in Port

Alex de Vos
New Port Power recruit Jasper McMillan-Pittard might have moved hundreds of kilometres from his home town of Torquay but he can still see the beach.
On Sunday night the 18-year-old footballer packed his bags, bid his family farewell and relocated to Adelaide, ready to embark on his new AFL career with Port Power.
The former St Kilda fan brushed feelings of homesickness aside, saying it helped being temporarily housed directly across from the beach.
“At the moment I’m just getting to know the area but so far it’s been really good – the whole club’s been pretty welcoming,” McMillan-Pittard told the Independent.
“We’re staying right across the road from beach, which is great.”
Despite his love for the Saints, McMillan-Pittard said he was “absolutely thrilled” with last week’s draft selection.
He described the experience as “pretty full on”.
“I was a Saints fan but I’m happy as Larry,” he said.
“It doesn’t really matter (what team you play for), it’s more about the opportunity.”
The budding sportsman, who has lived in Torquay for the past three years, said he had fond memories of kicking the footy around his Surf Coast home.
“Moving to Torquay was definitely a positive move for my football,” McMillan-Pittard said.
“Playing for clubs in Torquay has been great for my development and I love it down there.
“All the fresh air and the beach is great for rehab.”
McMillan-Pittard is the second former Torquay player to join Port Adelaide after the Power grabbed rising star Travis Boak with pick number five in the 2006 AFL draft.