In his 11^th season in the AFL, Dan Rich unquestionably had his best ever year. Playing off the half back line, Rich was vital to the Lions vastly improved back six and used his trademark left boot to launch the Lions into attack mode time and time again.

Rich’s 2019 season averages across the board improved dramatically from 2018, and, in many cases, he set several career-highs. With an average of 18 kicks, 22.5 disposals, 5.7 marks and 6.5 rebound 50’s per game, the 29-year-old took his game to a new level in 2019. 

Further to four career-highs, Rich also made a statement in the AFL as a whole. He finished second in the AFL in total metres gained, third in total kicks and fourth in total rebound 50’s.

One of Rich’s standout performances was the Lions 56-point win against St Kilda in Round 14, where he added 24 touches, 11 marks and a goal to his name.

The Lions veteran also celebrated his 200^th game in 2019 against North Melbourne in Round 18 at The Gabba, where he was instrumental in the Lions eventual victory. In the most Daniel Rich way possible, he slotted a goal with 5 minutes to go in the final quarter from outside 50 to give the Lions the lead. That win propelled the Lions to second on the ladder.

Rich finished fifth in the Lions Club Champion event in 2019 with a total 289 votes and was unfortunate to miss out on All-Australian selection. He is contracted with the Lions until at least the end of 2021, giving his career resurgence plenty of opportunity for a few more chapters.