Darcy Gardiner came of age in the 2018 AFL season and in doing so, earned the reputation as one of the toughest defenders in the league.

The 23-year-old’s fifth season at the Brisbane Lions proved to be his best, with Gardiner often assigned the toughest matchups each game.

In Round 6, Gardiner was successful in shutting down GWS forward Jeremy Cameron. He restricted him to just one goal in the Lions’ 34-point loss.

In Round 10 against Sydney, Gardiner was assigned one of the toughest tasks in footy – to defend four-time Coleman medallist Lance “Buddy” Franklin. That afternoon, in the Lions 18-point loss, he restricted Franklin to just one goal in a superb one-on-one defensive effort.

Senior Coach Chris Fagan applauded Gardiner’s performance in this match and described him as the “ultimate competitor.”

Gardiner played every game of the season until dislocating his shoulder in Round 21 against the Pies. The injury ruled him out for the final two games of the year.

The disappointing end to Gardiner’s season was rectified when he finished fourth at the Merrett-Murray Medal count in the race Club Champion. Earlier that evening, he was also recognised as Trademark Player of the Year.

Coaches comment - Murray Davis, Backline Coach

A career-best season for Dizzy. He increased his ability to find the ball and use the ball well coming out of the back half. Someone who I can rely on to always fight out every play. His flexibility to be able to play on some of the best key forwards in Jeremy Cameron and Buddy Franklin yet also match up against a Eddie Betts is a fantastic asset to have in our backline.

Senior matches: 20