Brisbane Lions have re-signed Academy graduate Shadeau Brain on a new two-year deal, locking him in at Brighton Homes Arena until the end of 2026.
Brain joined the club after being pre-selected as a Category B Rookie from the Queensland Zone at the end of 2022.
The 20-year-old has yet to play an AFL game but this new contract extension has provided him with more faith from the club, as he looks to feature at the elite level.
“I felt last year I had a few interruptions with injuries that didn't help me, so I went away in the off-season focussed to return this year fit and firing,” Brain said.
“I left no stone unturned to make sure I gave myself the best chance of having a really solid season and feel I came back and ticked a lot of the boxes.
“Now in the next couple of years I just want to continue to grow as a player and as a person and to keep going forward to get some success with this great club.
“I also hope my story helps other young boys and girls coming through the AFL Queensland pathway that you can get to the top level.
“I think Queensland footy is continuing to grow and it's so good to see.”
Lions GM of Football Danny Daly said he was pleased to have the Brain re-commit to the Club.
“Shadeau has worked very hard since joining our football program and as a result thoroughly deserves to be rewarded with a new contract,” Daly said.
“It's always a great feeling to re-sign any player, particularly when they are a Queensland local who has come through our Brisbane Lions Academy.
“He is a player with natural talent and a bit of ‘x-factor' who has shown some promising development in the 18 months he has been with us and we look forward to what is ahead for Shadeau.”
Brain was initially drafted as a general forward but the opportunity to become a medium defender was proposed to the youngster, which he has taken with both hands.
The young Lion has averaged 17 disposals and seven marks in his five VFL outings, giving senior coach Chris Fagan something to consider.
