Top AFL Draft prospect Will Ashcroft has decided to join the Brisbane Lions as father-son selection ahead of the 2022 National Draft.
Ashcroft, the son of three-time premiership Lion Marcus, has emerged as arguably the best player in his draft class off the back of scintillating form with NAB League side the Sandringham Dragons and in the National Championships with Vic Metro.
The 18-year-old is averaging 35.3 disposals, 5 tackles and 6.4 inside 50s per game with the Dragons this season, form that has been matched with his time in Metro's side across the team's dominant 2022 campaign.
Previously torn between nominating the Lions or keeping his options open at the National Draft, Brisbane confirmed Ashcroft has decided to join the Queensland club.
“I can’t wait to join the Club and start earning the respect of all the players and coaching staff,” Ashcroft said.
“I was lucky enough to do some work with the midfielders last pre-season and I am really looking forward to learning from them and hopefully breaking into that group and seeing what we can become.
“To be following after dad is a privilege and if I can achieve half of what he did then I would be happy. I am also looking forward to forging my own name.
“I’d like to say a big thanks to Leon Harris (Lions recruiter) he has done heaps of work over the years to support me. And also a huge thanks to my parents and brother and sister for all they have done.”
The Lions will now be able to match a rival's bid for Ashcroft at the National Draft, with a potential bid at Pick 1 seeing Brisbane require 2400 draft points to match.
Lions football boss Danny Daly expressed his delight in having the talented teenager join the club.
“Will is one of the most talented young players in the country and to have him choose the Brisbane Lions to start his AFL career is a huge moment for all involved,” Daly said.
“He has impressed at every level he has played at this year, and like our members, we cannot wait for him to pull on a Brisbane Lions jumper.
“Obviously his father Marcus is a legend of our Club and it’s exciting to see him follow in those footsteps while also making a name for himself.
“We look forward to welcoming Will, Marcus, Bekky, Levi and Lucy to the Brisbane Lions Family.”
Marcus Ashcroft played 318 games for Brisbane across a 15-year career with the Lions and Bears.