The families of the Brisbane Lions’ first-year players got a glimpse into their loved one’s new life when the Club hosted its annual Induction Event in Queensland last weekend.

It was purposely scheduled around the ‘Festival of Football’ to ensure the families also had an opportunity to see the boys live in action at the new AFL precinct at Burpengary.

Player Welfare and Education Coordinator, Aleisha Whitelock, said the program was an important step in helping promote the Lions as a ‘Family Club’.

“We invite the whole family – it’s not always just mum and dad,” Whitelock told lions.com.au.

“Nick Robertson, for example, invited his immediate family, his grandparents, his girlfriend, and even his girlfriend’s parents, because they’re all very important to him.”

Some of the other itinerary items included a tour of the Gabba facilities, meetings with key Lions staff, and a relaxed BBQ with the entire playing and coaching group.

“On Friday morning we had training, so they get to see the boys run around. Then it was back to the Gabba for a chat with some of the people who will be play a significant role in their boys’ lives – like CEO, Malcolm Holmes, GM of Football Operations, Dean Warren, and Physical Performance Manager, Brett Burton,” Whitelock said.

“It’s good for the families to be able to put a face to the name of some of the people who will probably come up in day-to-day conversations.

“We concluded with a tour of the Gabba and its facilities, and then went and had dinner with the families.

“We bring our own families along to get involved in these events as well – so my partner was there along with Manny Lynch’s family. It really is a ‘Family Club’.”



The Induction Program concluded with a low-key jumper presentation on Sunday afternoon, which was attended by the entire playing group, football staff, and their families.

By the end of the hectic few days, the players’ families had a far better understanding of what life as an AFL footballer in Brisbane will be like for their son/brother/grandson/boyfriend.

“(The program) went really well and the feedback from the parents has been very positive,” Whitelock said.

“The families had to digest a fair bit of information, but they all said it was important to have that understanding on what happens in the football world, because the boys don’t always share everything on the phone.  

“Most hadn’t spent much time in Brisbane either, so even being able to just walk around the city and see where the boys are living was a new experience.

“While it’s obviously great to reunite the boys with their families, it’s just as important for the families to meet each other and share stories.

“A lot of the families have exchanged phone numbers and email addresses, and have already planned catch-ups in the future. After all, they’re all on the same journey together.”