Brisbane Lions VFL-listed players Tahj Abberley and Harry Arnold has been named in a 43-man squad to take on the best of SANFL during AFL Gather Round on April 12.
The Smithy’s VFL State Team coaching panel was also announced, with Hudson named as an assistant coach for the second year in a row.
“We are wrapped for both men to be selected to represent the Club in such a historic rivalry in our sport,” VFL Coach, Ben Hudson said.
“It’s great to see both men rewarded for their consistent high-level performances at the level for an extended period of time, Tahj is entering his fifth season with our VFL program, and he has continued to develop year-on-year.
“Harry is one who we are delighted to welcome back into our VFL program this season after spending 18 months on Sydney’s AFL list.
“It demonstrates that depth we have in our VFL group at the moment, and it is exciting to see that as we enter the early stages of the season.”
Abberley, who has been part of the Lions VFL set up since 2021, playing 68 games as he begins his fifth season.
A Youi Brisbane Lions Academy product, Abberley has been used predominantly off half-back by Hudson but has the ability to play all over the ground.
Arnold joined the Lions over the off-season after spending the second half of 2023 and all of 2024 on Sydney’s AFL list after being drafted from Brisbane in the 2023 AFL mid-season draft.
A consistent performer for the Lions and Swans at VFL level, Arnold dealt with injury through last season but has been rewarded with selection to tackle their South Australian counterparts.
A 43-player squad has been unveiled in preparation for the 2025 AAMI State Game, which will be played at Tanunda Recreation Park in the Barossa on Saturday, April 12.
