Watch Dayne Beams speech from 5:37.
Although he was out injured for most of the season, Lions first-year Dayne Beams managed to poll 130 votes in the Brisbane Lions Merrett-Murray Medal count, for the top spot and he had plenty to say about his new Club.
“The process of getting to this footy club was a really drawn out thing and I was overseas at the time,” said Beams.
“It wouldn’t have been done without the help Greg Swann, Peter Schwab and Justin Leppitsch so first of all, thanks for getting me to the footy club that I wanted to.
Beams requested a trade to the Lions from the Pies in the 2014 trade period citing that he wanted to be home with his family.
“Obviously my family, who I’ve made the decision to moved back for,” he said on thanking his family.
“Footy for me is a small part of my life and these guys are my rocks.
“And to my fiancé, Kelly. Kelly’s a born and bred Melbourne girl so it’s never easy to get up and shift your life - I appreciate everything you’ve done and that you’ve been able to come with me.”
The premiership player had a strong message for the playing group after a tough season for the Lions, finishing with just four wins.
“To the rest of the boys – there’s been a lot of movement going on throughout the last few weeks and I’ve come from a successful organisation and I’ve been able to taste success so if there’s one thing I could say to you boys is just to stick around.
“It’s not far around the corner and it can turn around quickly.
“If we can keep the current group together and build a bit of continuity within the group, I think we can do some special things.
“There are teams within the competition now who have been able to turn things around pretty quickly so who’s to say we cant play finals footy next year.
Beams also spoke on behalf of the rest of the Club in thanking the departed and the retirees for all that they’ve provided to the Club.
“To the boys that are departing the footy club, I wish you all the best in the future.
“I hope you guys can either go onto bigger and better things or pursue your careers at another footy clubs and do well.
“Thank you guys for the service you’ve provided the club.”
“Last of all, the rest of these boys who I’ve been able to share this honour with tonight, thank you for the year that you’ve given the Club and let’s go onto bigger and better things next year.”
Watch Dayne Beams speech from 5:37.
