Two years after the heartbreaking loss to Yeronga in the 2017 QWAFL final, the Coorparoo Kings unreservedly defeated Bond University yesterday afternoon at Leyshon Park to claim the 2019 QAFLW premiership, 94-18.

Lions AFLW Coach Craig Starcevich was there watching on and was proud of the impact the Lions AFLW players and potential draftees had on the game.

Jesse Wardlaw was a dominant force in the Kings’ forward line, with the Lions’ 2019 Rookie of the Year booting an incredible six goals of the team’s overall 14.

Starcevich said Wardlaw’s hard work rate and constant presence was the difference.

“She was covering a lot of territory in the forward half,” he said.

In the months since the end of the 2019 AFLW season, Starcevich said the 19-year-old’s game has continued to improve.

“You can see her jump in the marking contest with a lot more confidence,” he said.

“She’s not phased by her match up, she’s happy to take on everyone.

“She’s become very hard to match on.”

Emma Zielke, a Coorparoo Kings veteran and inaugural Lions player, saved her best game of the season for last.

Zielke kicked three goals and had more than 20 possessions.

“Zilks was great. She played midfield/forward and was always a threat,” he said.

Jessica Wuetschner, usually known for booting goals, was in the defensive line for the Kings. Jade Ellenger also worked hard across the ground.

“’Woosh’ was terrific in the back half and occasionally through the midfield,” Starcevich said.

“Jade was her normal, consistent, busy self.”

Arianna Clarke was the only Lion playing for minor premiers Bond University and was solid in the defensive line.

Aside from seeing the Lions players shining on Queensland’s biggest stage, another exciting aspect yesterday afternoon was seeing the talent coming through.

Four Hyundai Help for Kids Lions Academy players took part in the big dance.

“Tarni White played as a rebounding half back and Tahlia White as a tall key defender were very good defensively,” Starcevich said.

“17-year-old Macie Brown was busy through the midfield and Clementine Rousseau-Forwood did some nice work as a medium midfielder/defender.”

The draftees who are of age have the potential to be drafted to the Lions at the 2019 NAB AFLW Draft in October.