The Brisbane Lions will unveil their third debutant in two matches with Queensland talent Shadeau Brain to make his AFL debut on Sunday against the Adelaide Crows.
Brain, a Brisbane Lions Academy graduate, joined the Club after being pre-selected as a Category B Rookie from the Queensland Zone at the end of 2022.
Initially recruited as a 183-centimetre forward, Brain’s versatility has seen him move to the half-back flank, where his speed and ball use has been on display in the VFL.
A Noosa Tigers product from his younger days, Brain is another Queensland junior who has navigated the pathways, culminating in an AFL debut.
The 11th of 13 kids ranging from their mid-teens to their mid-30s, Brain is one of eight boys.
His dad Greg - from the proud footy town of Finley in New South Wales which has produced the likes of Tom Hawkins, Shane Crawford and Allan Jeans - also played and coached at a high-level during his time in Darwin and Victoria before moving to Queensland.
Brain becomes the second Brisbane Lions Academy graduate to debut in as many weeks for the Club, following Bruce Reville and Logan Morris’ debut against the SUNS.
The utility said he was shocked but excited to get his opportunity at AFL level this weekend.
“I got the call from Fages (senior coach Chris Fagan) and was in a bit of shock to be honest. I knew we’d had some injuries, but it was still pretty incredible to get that call from him,” Brain said.
“He told me he just wants me to bring my energy and my effort, and the rest will take care of itself.
“I’ve worked really hard to be fit and firing for this season and I’m excited to get this opportunity at AFL level.”
Brain has been around the Lions program for several years, playing at VFL level prior to being drafted, and was grateful for the opportunities the Club has provided him.
“I’m definitely very thankful that Danny (General Manager Danny Daly) Fages, Huddo (VFL coach Ben Hudson) and the footy staff who have helped me immensely even before I was drafted,” he said.
“This Club has been a huge part of my life and I’m looking forward to repaying that faith they’ve put in me over the years.
“It’s great to see a few of the guys come through the Academy and get a shot in the AFL. I can’t wait to run out with the boys on Sunday.”
Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said Brain’s selection was a deserving reward for his dedication and development over the last two years.
“Shadeau has worked very hard since joining our football program and as a result thoroughly deserves to be debuting against the Crows,” Daly said.
“It’s even more special with Shadeau being a Queensland local and someone who has come through our Brisbane Lions Academy.
“He is a player with natural talent and a bit of ‘x-factor’ who has shown consistently good form in the VFL, and we look forward to seeing what he can bring on Sunday.”
