Hugh McCluggage has extended his contract with the Brisbane Lions for another three years, and will be tied to the club until at least the end of the 2021 season.
McCluggage, who was drafted with the third overall pick last year and played 18 games in his debut season, told lions.com.au he's thrilled to be re-committing.
โIโm really excited to stay here for another three years and see what we can do,โ McCluggage said.
โI like where the club is heading and the direction we are heading in.
โItโs pretty exciting your first year, you run on a bit of adrenaline.
โThe debut was obviously a really big highlight. Being able to do that with Bez [Jarrod Berry] as well was awesome. Winning that game against Essendon, a really close game, all the wins you savour.
In his 18 matches this season, the midfielder averaged 15.1 disposals, 3.9 marks and 2.0 tackles per game.
Brisbane's General Manager of Football David Noble told the club's website McCluggage's character reflects those values of the Lions, and is excited to see the young gun sign on.
โHugh is an outstanding individual with high personal values and work ethic, which reflects the environment we are creating," Noble said.
โIt is an indication of our Club moving forward together as we continue to gain respect and relevance in the competition.โ
Lions coach Chris Fagan also weighed in on the signing, and is excited to see just how much the 19-year-old can progress over the next few years.
โI think itโs great news that Hughโs agreed to sign on for another three years at the Club,โ Fagan added.
โHe made a fantastic start to his career last year, playing a lot of senior footy. Thereโs a lot more of that ahead for him.
โHe looks a lot stronger and fitter than he was last year and for him to show that amount of faith in the Club, says a lot about where we are going to and where he thinks weโre headed.
โHe, along with a lot of the other young men, are really excited about our prospects. Theyโre here for the long haul.โ
