If the Lions were after a playing clone of first year player Harris Andrews they may have found it in Hyundai Help for Kids Lions Academy product, Eric Hipwood.
Standing at 200cm, the key position prospect has had a year of exciting games at both ends of the ground, playing most of the 2015 NEAFL Season for the Lions’ Reserves.
In the forward line he leads hard and kicks straight. In defence he competes hard, reads the ball well in the air and is agile when it goes to ground.
He played a major role in Queensland’s Division Two Grand Final win earning All-Australian honours and played for Aspley in the club’s finals campaign, having been on their list at the beginning of the season.
The 18-year-old recently returned from the AFL’s Draft Combine held in Melbourne in early October where he excelled, finishing in the top 10 for Absolute Standing Vertical Jump and Absolute Running Vertical Jump.
“It was a really good experience. I loved every second of it, but it was very tough.
“I didn’t do the beep test, but the 3km time trial I found really tough. It was on the last day,” Hipwood said.
“People were talking about it from day one. It played with your mind mentally, I finally got it out of the way so I’m pretty happy now.”
Hipwood said the Draft Combine experience enabled him to meet with other clubs and prepare for Draft Night on November 24.
“I did have the opportunity to speak to some clubs. It was a bit daunting, having a senior coach there, talking to you and watching you.
“Twelve months ago I was dreaming about being in the position I am at the moment. It was a thrill.”
Former Lions Captain, Jonathan Brown, was an idol for Hipwood growing up in Brisbane, along with St Kilda forward Nick Riewoldt.
“Living in Brisbane it was Jonathan Brown – he’s such a figure here and Nick Riewoldt from St Kilda, as a Saints supporter. He’s from the Gold Coast and was one of my favourites to watch on TV."
Hipwood had a small break in training following the combine before launching into a pre-draft training schedule.
“It’s pretty nervous times (ahead of the draft), but I feel pretty privileged to be in the position I am at the moment.
“I can’t wait for it and want to get into pre-season and start training.
“I’d love to stay here (in Brisbane). The Academy have put all their effort in trying to produce talent in Queensland.
“It’d be amazing if we could stay here.”