2017 was a defining season for Brisbane Lions veteran Dayne Zorko. The midfielder hit career-best form and was recognised as one of the best players in the country, receiving his first All Australian blazer.
“The Magician” kicked the most goals for the Lions this season, finishing with 34 in his 21 games. He was awarded his third consecutive Merrett-Murray Medal as the Club’s Best and Fairest and equalled Lions veterans Simon Black, Jonathan Brown and Michael Voss for the most Merrett-Murray Medals [Voss previously won two Club Champion awards with the Brisbane Bears].
Nothing, not even an infected leg, could stop Zorko towards the tail end of the season. He is fired up for the Lions to achieve more on-field success in 2018.
Statistics:
- Games: 21
- Disposals per game: 25.0
- Tackles per game: 7.0
- Marks per game: 3.8
- Kicks per game: 16.2
- Total goals: 34
Highlights:
- Named vice-captain as part of the Lions’ seven-man Leadership Group
- Highest goalkicker for the Club this season with 34 goals
- Awarded his first All-Australian blazer
- Awarded the Merrett-Murray Medal for the Lions’ Best and Fairest for a consecutive third year
- The AFL’s fifth highest tackler
Coaches’ Comment, Dale Tapping Midfield Coach:
Dayne had a terrific season and was rewarded with AA selection on the back some outstanding performances. His ability to go inside as a mid and then go forward to impact the scoreboard was a major threat to the opposition. His leadership also went to another level which was important with our young group.
In their own words:
“I am very humbled and honoured to be in the position I am.
“You never really go into a team sport wanting to win personal awards but when they come along it is great and good recognition for the hard work you’ve put in.
“We don’t necessarily look at wins and losses, we know it is important and what our season is judged on, but we look at the process and how we can get to that last day in September.
“We think as a team now we understand what it takes to do that.”
- Zorko speaking to Brisbane media on August 31,
View previous Player Reviews:
Player Reviews: Keays, Christensen, Bastinac and Robinson
Player Reviews: McCluggage, Bell and Bewick
Player Reviews: Harris Andrews
Player Reviews: Hanley, Berry, Walker
