Stevens was one of 12 Victorians selected in the side and the individual honour was the icing on a premiership cake for the Victorians.

Victoria comfortably advanced through the group stage with three wins in excess of 10 goals, before it defeated Queensland in the semi-final. Victoria dominated the grand final against an inaccurate South Australia, 9.5 (59) – 1.8 (14).

Stevens said the standard of football in Perth was a step up, but after the opening game he adapted well.

Stevens kicked seven goals from his five matches playing at full-forward. Perth delivered some difficult conditions for talls, but it did not faze Stevens who credited the silver service of his midfield group.

“The quality of it and the pace of it was a lot different to local footy,” Stevens said.

“The first game it took a bit of getting used to, but after that it went alright.

“I played alright. But it was pretty easy when the ball is getting delivered to you like it for was for me, they were perfect kicks every time.

“It was good to get over the line (in the grand final).”

Stevens said it was a great experience to play with a fresh group of talented footballers, many of which he will keep contact with, while representing Victoria was a dream come true.

“To represent your state is pretty big, (I’ve) been dreaming about it for a while.”

Stevens’ father, Matt, said he was proud of his son’s efforts.

“We were honestly thrilled to see him get in. Quite unexpected really given it was about making sure he held his own in that company,” Matt said.