PORT ADELAIDE defenders Trent McKenzie and Jake Pasini have recommitted to the club, agreeing to terms on respective contract extensions.

McKenzie has added another year to his Alberton tenure, signing on until the end of 2023 while Pasini will remain with the club until at least the end of 2024.

Since making his way to Port Adelaide as a delisted free agent in 2017, McKenzie has made his name as a long kicking defender, adding 38 AFL games to the 106 he played with Gold Coast as part of the Suns’ inaugural list.

Injuries and ill health have limited the 30-year-old to just six AFL games so far this season but he has become a reliable backman over the past three years after starting his career on the wing.

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“Trent has had a frustrating season in 2022 after suffering a knee injury in the first few weeks of the season, but at his best he is an important part of our defence,” List Manager Jason Cripps said.

“He brings experience and a unique defensive skill set that allows him to compete against both tall or small forwards.”

Pasini arrived at Alberton as part of the 2019 AFL Rookie draft from Caversham and Swan Districts in Western Australia.

Having added bulk to his 192cm frame, the key position defender was among the most consistent performers at SANFL level early this season, showcasing his ability to read the play, composure and booming right boot, before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

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It has been a frustrating three years at Alberton for Pasini, who has been limited to just 14 SANFL games in that time, but Cripps praised the 21-year-old for his attitude to his rehabilitation and want to improve.

“Jake has had a tough start to his time with our club if you consider in 2020, we were unable to participate in the SANFL so he didn’t get to play any games and then he suffered a shoulder injury which interrupted his last season,” Cripps said.

“He had shown significant improvement this season and was close to AFL selection before he ruptured his ACL in May. But he has remained positive and diligent with his rehabilitation, and we expect him to continue to develop his craft as a key defender.”