The Brisbane Lions are excited to announce Hugh McCluggage has agreed to a new deal with the Club.
The three-year contract extension ensures the silky skilled midfielder will be a Lion until at least the end of 2024.
The 22-year-old said he was thrilled to commit his future to the Lions.
“I love playing here,’’ he said.
“I was and will always remain humbled and honoured to get a chance to do something I love for a living and I’m thrilled have signed an extension with the Lions.
“I love my teammates, we are a brotherhood and we also have an incredible bond with the coaches and support staff who work tirelessly to give us the chance to be the best we can be.
“And to me a football club also means the staff, members and fans and everyone’s family and friends.
“When you come from another State to play football these people all help to make you feel at home.’’
McCluggage is coming off another strong season which saw him claim his second top three finish in the Merrett-Murray medal and be named once again in the preliminary All Australian squad.
He was also a standout in the post season as the Lions broke a ten-year drought to claim a qualifying final win over Richmond.
His performances saw him share the Best Finals Player Award with Brownlow medalist Lachie Neale.
However, he said any celebrations were short lived as the entire Club immediately began searching for ways to improve in 2021.
“We’ve had a couple of good seasons but none of us are satisfied, everyone wants to work hard to get better,’’ he said.
“I love coming to work every day because I see everyone shares the same commitment.’’
Lions GM of Football Danny Daly said the signing would provide a huge boost for the Club.
“The Club as a whole are excited Hugh has agreed to extend his contract at the Lions,’’ he said.
“Hugh has grown into not only a very good footballer, but he has also grown into a terrific young man and leader of the Club off the field and this has been rewarded with his inclusion in our leadership group.
“He typifies the culture we have built in the last four years and this extension is a great reward for him and his family, who have played a big part in his journey .
“We look forward to Hugh continuing to play a big part in our continued success.”
