The 2018 season for the Brisbane Lions could not have started on a better note after Cameron Rayner put pen to paper on a contract extension on Monday.
Taken with the number one pick in the most recent AFL draft, Rayner has committed to the club for a further two seasons, up until the end of the 2021 season.
Currently living with club CEO Greg Swann, Rayner says he is thoroughly enjoying life up north as a Lion.
“I’ll be up in Brisbane for four years now which is very exciting. The team’s looking like it’s going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that,” Rayner told lions.com.au.
“There is just so much young talent here.”
“I’ll be up in Brisbane for four years now which is very exciting. The team’s looking like it’s going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that,” Rayner told lions.com.au.
“There is just so much young talent here.”
Yet to play his first game as a Lion, #1 Draft Pick & CEO Greg Swann chat about Rayner's big decision to extend his contract two more years! pic.twitter.com/RfsEZKVek9
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) January 9, 2018
General Manager of Football David Noble says Rayner's commitment to the club indicates a certain level of optimism from it's young core.
“As a Club we are building a strong culture and Cam’s early decision to extend is a great indication of this. Cam has brought an infectious energy to the group and we look forward to his growth over the coming years,” he said.
Rayner's keen desire to learn is one trait that has impressed senior coach Chris Fagan.
“It’s great news for the Club that Cam has decided to commit for the next 4 years. He, along with the other 5 young men we drafted in November, have had a positive impact on our environment since arriving," Fagan said.
"Cam’s highly competitive nature, his team-first approach and willingness to work hard have been highlights over his first couple of months. His skills and ability to read the game combined with his power and speed are valuable attributes for our team.
"Above and beyond everything else he is a terrific person who is hell-bent on earning the respect of his teammates for the way he goes about his life and his football.”
Rayner joins Fremantle's number two draft pick Andrew Brayshaw among rookies to commit beyond their initial contracts.
