Throughout September, lions.com.au will be reviewing the seasons of all members of our current playing group. Today take a look back at Jarrod Berry's spectacular second year at the Club.
#13 - Jarrod Berry
Jarrod Berry was given plenty of tough assignments in 2018.
The 20-year-old midfielder was often assigned by Coach Chris Fagan the role of playing on the opposition's best midfielder, amongst the likes of Carlton's Patrick Cripps, Hawthorn's Tom Mitchell and Adelaide's Rory Sloane.
His work rate was outstanding. Berry was particularly impressive on Cripps, keeping the gun midfielder to only 21 disposals in the Lions' win over Carlton.
Whilst he isn't expected to play a large tagging role at the Club for years to come, both Fagan and Berry are confident that this season's growth in attacking the contest will hold him in good stead for years to come.
The young gun kicked off his second year with a career-best performance against St Kilda, collecting 19 disposals and kicking three goals.
Another impressive effort in Round 5 against Gold Coast saw him finish with 25 disposals, nine marks and eight tackles.
Berry missed only one game for the
Over 21 matches, Berry averaged 18.5 disposals at 74% efficiency and kicked 12 goals.
This is considerable growth on his debut season when he averaged 13.7 disposals over 16 Senior matches.
Berry was unlucky to miss out on selection in AFL Players' Association's best 22 under 22
With two pre-seasons and 37 games under his belt, the boy from Ballarat has developed his game considerably. He is a natural leader and fan-favourite who is regarded as a future leader of the Club.
Coaches Comment - Dale Tapping Midfield Coach:
"Similar to Hugh, he took his game to another level and played on some of the better midfielders in the competition in 2018. Did a great job for the team and is really developing his craft."
