11 Facts About Michael Rischitelli

Michael Rischitelli was born on 8 January 1986 and is a former Australian rules footballer who played for the Gold Coast Suns in the Australian Football League.

Mainly due to a quad injury, Michael Rischitelli played only three games for the year, in which he made a minimal impression.

Michael Rischitelli started to find a lot more of the ball than in previous years, and in rounds six and seven his disposal count was in the twenties, earning him two Brownlow votes and a Rising Star nomination.

Michael Rischitelli had a solid 2009 season, but was shocked when he was offered up, along with Daniel Bradshaw, as a possible trade option for controversial Carlton full-forward Brendan Fevola after the conclusion of the 2009 season.

Michael Rischitelli was offered up to trade and has been suggested as a possible reason why he left to play with the Gold Coast a season later.

Michael Rischitelli's had his best season to date in 2010, becoming the most consistent player in the Lions injury-riddled midfield, playing every match and leading the club in kicks, handballs, marks, clearances and contested possessions.

Shortly after his decision to leave Brisbane, Michael Rischitelli won his first best and fairest award, ahead of club stalwarts Simon Black and Jonathan Brown.

On 7 September 2010, it was announced that Michael Rischitelli was joining the AFL's 17th club, the Gold Coast Suns from 2011 onwards.

Michael Rischitelli was born and grew up in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria.

Michael Rischitelli showed great promise and potential playing for the Western junior sides, but was hindered by a bout of osteitis pubis during his year playing in their under-18 side.

Michael Rischitelli was the Lions' fifth and eventual final pick in the 2003 AFL Draft, and was the number 61 draft pick overall.