Carlton’s Mitch McGovern shares hub frustration during time back home in Albany

Carlton forward and former North Albany player Mitch McGovern has spoken out about the tough experiences of being confined to strict quarantine and footy hubs for much of the 2020 AFL season. McGovern was in Albany at the weekend for a close mate’s wedding, and took the time to catch up with the Advertiser after an AFL season like no other. The 26-year-old played 12 matches this season and booted nine goals to help the Blues rise up the ladder. “It was a tough year for everyone involved in the AFL, not just the players and partners but for everyone,” McGovern said. “It was pretty tough individually being away from your home and normality and the things you’re most comfortable with, but in saying that, it was a bit of a character-building experience. “It was almost like a school camp. “It was different, but the first four weeks were all fun and games until you realise you will be up there for another three to four months. “You grew old of seeing the same faces everyday. “It got pretty tough at one stage there where you just need your own space but you literally can’t get it. “It was a different experience, a unique one, and hopefully we don’t go through it ever again.” McGovern had his partner Kirsten in the Blues’ hub with him and said playing golf was a way to relax from the pressures of hub life. After visiting family and friends this week, McGovern hoped to spend Christmas back here in WA before heading to Melbourne for the start of the pre-season on January 6. “It’s been bloody nice and good to be back and just be able to relax and let the hair down a little bit,” he said. “It’s good to see all the family and family friends and everyone here. “Albany is home for me so it’s awesome to get back.” He has a strict off-season program that involves multiple running and weights sessions each week. “We are going places and the playing group know it and we are driven,” McGovern said. “We want to get there — the members have been waiting for 20-odd years for some success, and we want to give it to them. “The team goal is obviously to make finals but we just really need to start the season well and we all need to stay healthy. “I need to stay fit and this is the time now to do it.”