Jake Lever

Jake Lever is a professional Australian Rules footballer currently playing as a defender for the Melbourne Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Known for his intercept marking and exceptional game sense, he primarily operates as a half-back and is recognised for his ability to read the play and influence outcomes from defence.

Originally from Romsey, Victoria, Jake began playing elite-level football at a young age. In 2012, he received a scholarship with the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) as part of the AFL Academy, before playing for the Calder Cannons in the TAC Cup. He also represented and captained Victoria in the AFL Under-18 Championships as a bottom-aged player.

Despite suffering a serious knee injury that sidelined him during his final junior year, Jake was drafted at pick fourteen in the 2014 AFL Draft by the Adelaide Football Club. He made his AFL debut in 2015, earning an AFL Rising Star nomination in his first season. Over three seasons with Adelaide, Jake played in a grand final, was named in the All-Australian squad, selected three times for the 22under22 team, and won the Emerging Talent Award. He joined the Melbourne Football Club during the 2017 trade period and continues to be a key contributor to the team’s defence.

Beyond football, Jake is an accomplished athlete with a background in boxing, having been in contention for the 2012 London Olympics. He also has a strong interest in mentoring emerging talent, leadership, and culture development within sport. Outside the field, Jake enjoys wine appreciation, cooking, travelling, and spending quality time with his family.