Brisbane Lions star players Darcy Wilmot and Brandon Starcevich hold Auskick Super Clinic in Toowoomba

Aussie Rules players from across the Darling Downs were at the first Auskick Super Clinic since Covid, with star Brisbane Lions players in attendance. Check out the action here.

Josh Hawkless, Brandon Starcevich and Klay Norris. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

AUSSIE RULES: The Brisbane Lions are back out in the community, after a hiatus during Covid.

The Lions have been running Auskick Super Clinics around the state, with one held in the Garden City to engage with the community and encourage junior players to sign-up for the upcoming season.

Lincoln Newman, Darcy Wilmot, Spencer Newman and Chelsea Newman. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Lions’ gun defender, Darcy Wilmot said he was stoked to be out in the community, and that it was his first ever clinic as a (professional) player.

“It’s really great, we come here and help out with the coaches and run some drills and sign some gear and take photos with the kids,” Wilmot said.

“It doesn’t matter if you haven’t played before, it’s good to give it a go and meet some friends and have some fun.

“Some advice for young kids and juniors is to get down to as many training sessions as you can, listen to what your coaches are telling you, but mainly, just have fun. If you can do that you’ll be enjoying yourself and that’s what matters.”

Josh Hawkless, Brandon Starcevich and Klay Norris. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Brandon Starcevich was another of the Lions’ players at the clinic, and was impassioned about getting more involvement in rural areas.

“I love coming out to different areas and doing this stuff (super clinic’s),” he said.

“Seeing all the kids out having fun and watching them meet their favourite players is really cool.

“There’s a huge opportunity for growth out here (Darling Downs), and that’s why we come out here so we can share the great game of AFL. Today, I had some boys ask about sign-on, so it’s good for us to help out with numbers for the (local) clubs.

Starcevich also had some advice for juniors embarking on their footy journey.

“Get into it, go and have fun. I remember growing up and playing junior footy, having fun with all my mates... the friendships you can get from footy are invaluable.

“Boys and girls and everyone should all give it a go because it’s a great way to stay fit and healthy.”

Ben Vogler. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Eleven-year-old Ben Vogler, who plays for the Coolaroo AFC, spent the day with players from his favourite team Brisbane Lions in a bid to better his skills and get some autographs.

“I’m here today because I love footy and I want to go pro when I’m older,” Ben said.

“Lachy Neale is my favourite player, he is really versatile and plays all over the field.”

Maxwell Pattison (left) and Patrick Murrie. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Ben’s best mate Max Pattison, also 11 and plays in the same club team, was at the clinic too.

“I’m here to meet the Lions and get to have a kick with them,” Max said.

“The lions are my favourite team, I’ve been following them for a couple of years.”

Abby Donahoe. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Seventeen-year-old Abby Donahoe was one of the older players at the clinic.

Playing for Toowoomba Tigers in their women’s side as a midfielder, Donahoe was at the clinic to meet her favourite player Darcy Wilmot, and grab a photo with him.

“I got to say g’day, I couldn’t wait. I was a little nervous,” she said.

The Lions will continue to meet with schools and junior players throughout South East Queensland for the remainder of the week.

William Anderson. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Patrick Murrie. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Hartley Johnson. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office. Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Ralph Beadle with the Lions mascot. Auskick Super Clinic at the AFLQ Darling Downs Office.Monday, February 6, 2023. Picture: Nev Madsen.