Defender Kate Lutkins has been recognised at the Brisbane Lions Women’s Best and Fairest awards on Friday evening, taking out the Most Courageous player award.

Recruited from Wilston Grange, Lutkins quickly became a general down back for the Lions.

The Defence Force driver was commended for her ability to balance everyday work life with her football.

“Her willingness to get off her opponent and get across in front of other marking contests, either to intercept or to spoil, but to also then have the courage to push over hard and lay a game saving tackle is a reason that we’ve chosen her as being Most Courageous,” said Senior Coach Craig Starcevich.

“Everything Kate has done to balance in her work life in the Defence Force, having really long hours at work, and then coming to training and working really hard.

“This award is a credit to that.”