Brisbane cult figure Ryan Lester has been rewarded with a one-year extension on the eve of the 2024 finals.
Lester has arguably put the most consistent year in his 14th season at the Lions, playing in every game.
The 32-year-old stood up in the club's hour of need, as Chris Fagan was limited by injuries to key defensive options.
Despite the year still very much alive as Brisbane prepares for Saturday's elimination final, Lester is excited for the 2025 year.
โI am really excited to be at the Brisbane Lions for another year,โ Lester said.
โThere's a great environment and culture at the club, which I love being around, and it makes turning up each day more enjoyable.
โI am also grateful for the role the club and football in general play in my life and my family's life.
โI look forward to seeing what the rest of the 2024 season can bring for us as a club.โ
Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly, said Lester is just as valuable off the field, which is why the club is thrilled to have him re-commit.
โWhen people always talk about Ryan, they regard him as such a selfless, team-first player and leader who everyone loves to be around,โ Daly said.
โBut over the last two seasons particularly, he has reminded many that he is a talented player who plays such an important role for us down back.
โHe is playing some really good footy and deserves this new contract because he has worked incredibly hard for it.
โThe culture at the football club is largely due to having people like Ryan here, as well as his wife Emi and their kids, so we look forward to having them stay with us.โ
Lester will play a big role in helping curtail the Carlton forward line, who welcomed back Harry McKay and Tom De Koning to the side.
