The Power were able to permanently elevate Pfeiffer onto its senior list to fill the club’s 40th spot as it only has one player - captain Dom Cassisi - on the veteran’s list.
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After spending time on the senior list at both Adelaide and Carlton, the Power offered Pfeiffer another chance at AFL level by recruiting him via pick number 3 at the 2012 AFL Rookie Draft in December.
Pfeiffer was delisted at the end of 2008 after playing 7 games for Carlton. He then spent two seasons at Southport in the NEAFL before returning to Adelaide last season where he impressed at SANFL level with Norwood.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed a solid pre-season playing in all the Power’s NAB Cup games, including Friday night’s win over Melbourne when he gathered 14 disposals and kicked two goals in an impressive display.
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Port Adelaide senior coach Matthew Primus says Pfeiffer richly deserves his promotion.
“Darren has had a very good pre-season and has really stood out with his ability to play down back and also through the midfield,” said Primus.
“That versatility has really added to our group and with his attack on the ball and his ability to understand our structures and what we’re trying to achieve, he has plenty to offer.
“Darren saw an opportunity and he has really gone about his preparation and the way he trains and plays in a very professional manner since arriving at the club.”
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Pfeiffer says he’s delighted to get another opportunity to prove himself at AFL level and encourages other rookies to continue to chase their dream.
“It’s a great feeling from a personal level to get another opportunity to play AFL footy,” said Pfeiffer.
“In saying that I feel for all our other rookies that missed out but I know they’ll get an opportunity if they continue to persist.”
Pfeiffer says that his first goal was to impress during the NAB Cup and he thanked all his coaches and team mates for the support they had shown him.
“The NAB Cup was always going to be very important for me so my main goal when I arrived was to do my best on the track and try and fit in and be part of the team,” said Pfeiffer.
“All my team mates have been outstanding with their support since I arrived and the entire coaching group has had a lot of confidence in me and really encouraged me to embrace the club and the opportunity that exists.
“My goal from here is to continue to improve and play my role for the team as best as I can, if and when I get an opportunity.”
