Brisbane Lions name leadership group, make Dayne Zorko captain

Darcy Gardiner’s elevation into Brisbane’ leadership group surprised no one at the Lions — except recruit Lachie Neale, who assumed the young gun was already part of it as the club announced Dayne Zorko as it’s captain.

The only Lion surprised by Darcy Gardiner’s elevation to the club’s leadership group yesterday was Lachie Neale.

And that’s because the gun recruit had assumed since arriving at the club that Gardiner was already a leader, given his maturity and standing among the players.

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Brisbane Lions have announced their leadership group for the 2019 season. Picture: AFL Media/Getty Images

“I actually thought Darcy was a part of the leadership group so when he was voted in I thought he’d stayed in from last year,’’ he said.

“So that shows his capabilities and the work that he has done in that area the past couple of years must have been really impressive.’’

Gardiner, 23, and third year midfielder Jarrod Berry joined Neale as the new faces in a six man group that is led by captain Dayne Zorko and deputy Harris Andrews and also includes Stefan Martin.

While Gardiner may not be attracting much attention from the media or fans of rival cubs, he is revered within the Lions and is building a solid level of respect from direct opponents.

No one was surprised by Darcy Gardiner’s elevation into the Lions leadership group. Picture: Getty Images

Veteran Luke Hodge was not the least bit surprised last season when former teammate and superstar Swan Lance Franklin pulled him aside after a game last season to inform him of his new found admiration for Gardiner after suffering the rare indignity of having his colours lowered by the gritty Lion.

While Gardiner’s voice carries great weight within the playing ranks, he tries to avoid the spotlight and prefers to use it sparingly in the media.

“I’m honoured and privileged and really looking forward to what we can achieve as a club going forward,’’ he said.

Berry, 21, had earmarked himself as a future leader from his first pre-season at the club and Neale said it was a natural progression for him to assume an official role.

Lachie Neale has stamped his mark on the Lions since crossing from Fremantle in the off-season. Picture: Getty Images

He said he had rarely seen such a well-rounded player at his age.

“Jarrod’s a young player but we have seen his work ethic and the way he communicates is really impressive for a young man,’’ he said.

“The way he attacks the footy but also defends as well is a credit to him.

“A lot of young guys just want to chase a kick when they first come into the system but his two way running really shows and that will set a great example for the young midfielders. ‘’

While his teammates consider him a leader Berry sees himself as a student and believes he has been given a great opportunity to learn.

“I feel enthusiastic and honoured about the opportunity I get to learn off some great leaders,’’ he said.

Dayne Zorko was named captain and Harris Andrews his deputy. Picture: AFL Media/Getty Images

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