The Lions have gone back to a successful hunting ground with the selection of Kai Lohmann with pick 20 in the NAB AFL Draft.
The Club’s second pick comes from the same footballing nursery in Ballarat that produced Hugh McCluggage, the Berry brothers, Tom and Jarrod and Harry Sharp.
Lohmann played on the wing and across half back at 16s level for Vic Country, however he has been used with great effect across half forward this season in a strong Greater Western Victoria Rebels team.
Considered one of the more eye-catching players in the draft, Lohmann roared up the draft rankings this season with his ability to sniff out a goal.
Considered equally dangerous in the air or crumbing at ground level, National Recruiting Manager Stephen Conole describes Lohmann as a competitive player that demonstrates high level AFL traits with his strong overhead marking for his size, pace and willingness to attack the game.
He ranked fourth in the 20m spring test among Vic Country draft prospects.
“We are super excited to bring Kai into the Club,’’ he said.
“He is a very talented and competitive young player, who played through this season predominately as a high half forward, however he has played on the wing and across half back at 16s level for Vic Country through his Junior years.
“Kai has a great skill set to be an exciting player for the footy club –- he is extremely strong overhead for his size, has quick feet and an attacking mindset in the way he likes to play the game.’’.