The famous Callinan name is set to run out once again in Tasmanian colours, with young gun Jack Callinan signing on to play with the Tasmania Devils' VFL team for the 2026 season.
After spending the past few years developing his craft with Central District in the SANFL, Callinan will return home to represent the newly established Tasmania Football Club as it begins its journey in the VFL and VFLW competitions.
The 20-year-old is a crafty and elusive small forward who can push into the midfield on occasion.
Football runs deep in Callinan's veins - he is the son of former Adelaide Crows forward Ian Callinan and the grandson of Tasmanian football great Des James, a member of the state's Hall of Fame and one of Tasmania's greatest ever Indigenous footballers.
Tasmania Football Club Head of List Management and Strategy Todd Patterson said the club was thrilled to welcome another chapter of the Callinan family story.
"We are incredibly excited to have the Callinan name back playing for the Tassie Devils, the rich history of this family has always been part of our story and for it to continue to be is incredible," he said.
"Jack has had a very successful junior career prior to joining Central District in the SANFL.
"Whilst he has played most of his career in the forward line Jack has also shown good ability in defence.
"Jack has played a good amount of senior football at that level and we expect him to do so for us with his versatility at both ends of the ground."
Aaron Pidgeon, Tasmania's Head of VFL and VFLW, said the local response to the new club has been overwhelming.
"We have been really enthused by the response we are receiving from young Tasmanian athletes wanting to come home and join the Devils VFL and VFLW programs," he said.
"The blend of younger and experienced athletes across the program is so important for us and we are delighted to be welcoming youngsters of Jack's calibre into the program."
For Callinan, returning home to represent his state brings a great sense of pride.
"This opportunity is one that I have hoped for over the last few years," he said.
"I want to play at the highest level and to be able to play for Tasmania Devils in the VFL at home is huge for me. I am looking forward to returning home to be with family and friends and to be able to continue my football journey.
"I have grown and developed during my time away and feel like I return a more experienced and mature player. This feels like the next stage for me and the opportunity to perform in the VFL at home is something I am really excited about."
The Tasmania Football Club will begin its VFL and VFLW pre-season in November.
