Harris Andrew, now considered the backbone of the Brisbane Lions’ defence, has risen to become a driving force behind their back-to-back grand final appearances. On Saturday, 28 September, the distinguished Old Boy of Padua College in Kedron returns, ready to seize his second shot at premiership glory.
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Moving to Brisbane’s northern suburbs at just four years old, Andrews began his football journey with the Auskick program at Aspley before progressing to junior football for the Aspley Hornets a year later.
In 2014, the Lions selected Andrews with Pick 61 in the national draft, marking the beginning of his professional AFL career.
All-Australian snub?
Since joining the Lions, Andrews has cemented himself as one of the AFL’s premier defenders. He boasts an impressive resume: two-time All-Australian, Merrett-Murray Medalist, four-time winner of the Lions’ Most Professional Player Award, and in 2023, named co-captain of the Brisbane Lions alongside Lachie Neale.
This season, the 27-year-old dominated the AFL with his defensive prowess as the league’s intercept king during the regular season. Despite this outstanding performance, he was surprisingly omitted from the All-Australian team, a decision that sparked debate among fans and analysts.
Great player, better leader
Not only has Andrews cemented himself as a defensive powerhouse, but his leadership off the field has also taken centre stage. Now in his second year as co-captain, Andrews has led the Lions to consecutive grand final appearances.
His leadership style emphasises team success over individual accolades. Reflecting on his All-Australian omission, Andrews remarks that he’s “not really too concerned about it.”
“The reward I’ve gotten internally is what I really value, and I feel like my teammates and the coaches are really confident in my ability each week, so it is what it is.”
This selfless approach defines his leadership both on and off the field. “At the end of the day, we’re not here for the individual accolades. We’re here for team success,” Andrews remarked.
“After 10 years of playing footy, all I’m chasing is a premiership.”
Harris Andrews extends until 2029
Last week, Harris reaffirmed his commitment to the club that raised and supported him. The defender signed a four-year contract extension, securing his place with the Lions until at least the end of the 2029 season, when he will be 32 years old.
This extension not only ensures Andrews’ future but solidifies the Lions’ defensive core as they continue building towards sustained success.
Brisbane Lions general manager Danny Daly praised Andrews, saying, “Harris is everything you want in a person, player and leader, which is why we are extremely fortunate to have him at the Lions.”
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As Andrews looks ahead to 2029 and beyond, the goal remains unchanged: lead the Lions to premiership glory, proving his worth not only as a defender but as a true Lion at heart.
Published 24-September-2024
