In May 1986 he signed a three–year contract with Richmond in the Victorian Football League beginning from the 1987 VFL season.[3] He was regarded as one of the most exciting footballers in the VFL of the late 1980s and early 1990s, albeit during poor seasons for Richmond as a club. His play featured pace and a high leap.
In 1990, Mitchell achieved both Mark of the Year and Goal of The Year awards in the same year, becoming, as of 2023, only the second player in the history of the competition to do so.
A lightly built player, Mitchell was, however, known as a strong tackler and for his ability to chase down opponents. His career was cut short by several head injuries and concussions sustained during his later playing years.
Retirement
At the end of his AFL career, Mitchell returned to Western Australia.
References
^"Sandover Medallist". WAFL Online. West Australian Football Commission. Archived from the original on 2 February 2019. Retrieved 12 August 2011.
Western Australia 24.14 (134) defeated South Australia 16.14 (110), at Subiaco Oval, 4 June 1983
Western Australia 16.22 (118) defeated Victoria 16.19 (115), at Subiaco Oval, 12 July 1983
South Australia 30.18 (198) defeated Western Australia 16.15 (111), at Subiaco Oval, 15 June 1985
Victoria 19.16 (130) defeated Western Australia 9.11 (65), at Subiaco Oval, 16 July 1985
Western Australia 18.19 (127) defeated South Australia 12.16 (88), at Football Park, 27 May 1986
Western Australia 21.11 (137) defeated Victoria 20.14 (134), at Subiaco Oval, 8 July 1986
South Australia 18.16 (124) defeated Western Australia 9.9 (63), at WACA, 16 June 1987
Victoria 16.20 (116) defeated Western Australia 13.14 (92), at Subiaco Oval, 22 July 1987