Brisbane Lions AFLW rookie, Evie Long has signed a two-year contract extension keeping her at Brighton Homes Arena until the end of 2027.

Drafted with pick 15 in the 2023 AFLW Draft, and a graduate of the Youi Brisbane Lions Academy, Long made her AFLW debut in Week 4 against the Western Bulldogs.

Long played 11 games in her first season including two finals and a grand final averaging 7.9 disposals and four tackles.

“This year has been such a whirlwind and I’m grateful to Craig and the coaching staff for giving me an opportunity,” Long said.

“To commit to the Club I’ve been part of through the Academy into the AFLW is amazing.

“I’m very thankful to the girls for welcoming me into the group so quickly this season and I’m super excited to see how far we can go over the next three years.”

Lions AFLW senior coach, Craig Starcevich noted Long’s quick development at AFLW level and is excited to see how far her career can take her.

“Evie came into our group as an already strong competitor, hard runner, and a player who defends as strongly as she attacks, so to see her develop quickly has been great but not surprising,” Starcevich said.

“She’s another who has come through our Academy pathway and she is someone who has a really high ceiling which is exciting for at such a young age and with more development to come.

“We’re excited she has committed to the Club for the next three seasons and we’re looking forward to seeing her continue to develop in the maroon, blue and gold.”