The Brisbane Lions’ newest cult hero, Bruce Reville has inked a new one-year contract extension continuing a whirlwind year for the 23-year-old.
Selected as a Category B rookie in the 2023 Rookie Draft, Reville made his AFL debut against the Gold Coast SUNS in Round 8 at the Gabba.
Instantly beloved by Lions fans, chants of ‘Bruce’ could be heard echoing around the stadium with every touch of the football.
Reville’s pre-football story, included shifts cutting meat at a local abattoir, driving a forklift at Bunnings and delivering packages at Christmas for extra money.
“Who would’ve thought… to think I was playing for Sherwood in the QAFL at the start of last year to now be playing AFL, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come,” Reville said, reflecting on his rise to AFL in the last 12 months.
“From the playing group to the staff and the facilities, we are so lucky to have the people that we do around us at the Lions.
“Everyone is always so happy to help whether that’s on or off field, it’s easy to see why the Club has been so successful in the last few years.”
Reville has let his footy do the talking in his first five outings at AFL level, with the Academy product becoming a regular fixture in Chris Fagan’s side.
After initially signing a one-year deal when drafted, Reville is now looking at least another season with the Lions, something he is incredibly grateful for.
“It’s massive to know I’m going to be here another year and can solely focus on my footy.
“For my family it’s great, we love it here in Brisbane and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said Bruce’s journey shows that determination and hard work pays off.
“He’s such a great story, coming through our Academy pathway and he’s done a lot of hard yards to get to this position,” Daly said.
“He took his opportunity with both hands when he got into our program full-time and he is an example of what hard work and perseverance can get you.
“Its great reward for Bruce and we are really pleased to be able to have him at our footy club.”
Reville will play his sixth game of AFL on Friday night as the classy left footer suits up for the Lions trip to Marvel to take on the Bulldogs.
