Two weeks after making his AFL debut, draftee Noah Answerth has extended his contract with the Club for a further two years, remaining in the den until at least the end of 2022. 

The 19-year-old was selected with Pick No. 55 at the 2018 NAB AFL Draft and made his debut in the Lions’ Round 6 win over the Gold Coast. Since then, the defender has retained his position and played against the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat on the weekend.

Answerth said he had achieved a childhood dream playing AFL. The moment was even more special, having overcome an almost career-ending back injury while playing for the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup competition as a seventeen-year-old.

“I never thought I would ever get drafted, let alone play a few AFL games now,” he revealed.

“It’s been a great Club to come to and everyone has been really nice.

“It’s been easy to come from Melbourne as all the older players get you involved and make you feel welcomed.”

General Manager of Football David Noble said Answerth’s growth since arriving in November was exciting to watch.

“Noah has shown improvement in his game from the day he landed at the Club,” Noble said. 

“He is a resilient person having coped with several setbacks in his early football career but has flourished at the Club.

“His growth has been very exciting, showing poise and maturity beyond his years where he plays with the same level of intent and intensity wherever he is played.”