Brisbane Lions duo Dayne Zorko and Lachie Neale have been rewarded for their outstanding seasons by being selected in the 2024 All-Australian squad.
The pair received their jackets at the AFL Awards in Melbourne on Thursday night.
Zorko was selected in the starting team at fullback, while Neale was named in the interchange.
Earning his second All-Australian honor capped a fine home and away season for Zorko, who, at 35, produced one of the best seasons of his career.
The Lions veteran was a driving force in defence, averaging 26 disposals and 8.2 points – while using the ball at 78% efficiency. Brisbane Lions general manager of football Danny Daly said Zorko deserved all the plaudits he received this season.
“In a star-studded competition, you don’t make the All-Australian team, let alone the 35-year-old team, without putting in the extra work and being diligent in your preparation and recovery,” Daly said.
“It’s a real credit to Zorks with what he does inside the club and outside the club to make sure he gives himself the best chance to be the best player he can be.
“He’s been fantastic for a number of seasons, but especially this year in defense and everyone at the club is delighted that he’s going to be a two-time All-Australian.”
Neale also added another All-Australian honor to his already outstanding playing CV, with the midfielder making the team for an impressive fourth time.
The ball magnet stood out in the Lions’ engine room averaging 29.5 kills at 75.7% efficiency. His clean hands and trademark composure showed with a 7.5 pitch average.
He helped the Lions advance with 6.8 goals and 13 goals of his own.
Daly also praised Neale after his All-Australian selection.
“Everyone who watches the way Lachie trains and plays is impressed by the way he does it, and because he does everything at a very high level,” he said.
“Lachie is one of those ultimate professionals and really driven athletes who is always looking for ways to improve and he was able to do that again this year. “He is one of our co-captains because he leads by example and, in doing so, fully deserves to be named an All-Australian again.”
The Lions also had co-captain Harris Andrews, leading forward Joe Daniher and exciting playmaker Cam Rayner named in Australia’s first 44-man squad.
“On behalf of all the Brisbane Lions, I’d obviously like to congratulate Dayne and Lachie on being selected in the All-Australian team,” Daly said.
“But I’d also like to congratulate Harris, Joe and Cam on being named in the squad, which is a huge achievement in itself.
“These three boys have had outstanding seasons and although they are disappointed not to have been selected for the team, they should be really proud.
“It is important that individual seasons are recognized and rewarded, now as a team we turn our attention to our first final against Carlton at the Gabba.”