TIGER BECOMES A LION

BY DAN SCAMOZZI

204cm ruckman Kalin Lane has been rewarded for his hard work and outstanding form after being drafted by the Brisbane Lions in the 2021 AFL mid-season draft.

Lane, who hails from Denmark-Walpole, has been instrumental in Claremont’s Reserves’ strong start to the season, which sees them sitting on top of the ladder, and made a promising League debut in the round three win against Perth at Revo Fitness Stadium.

Lane has won 200 hit-outs in his seven games this season and starred with his efforts around the ground, including his appetite for the contest, which has seen him lay team-lifting tackles and blocks.

Lane, who has captained the Reserves in recent weeks and won the players’ player award in round seven, has matured since being overlooked in last year’s drafts.

“I’ve learned a lot in the six months and matured a lot since missing out (in 2020) and having to deal with that,” Lane told The West Australian. 

“I was sort of in the dark a bit with Brisbane, I thought I was more of a chance to go at the end of the year so I definitely didn’t expect it.”

Lane was part of a special moment when told by Claremont Talent Manager Jordan Smith in front of his teammates at training that he’d been drafted by the Lions.

“I was on the track and everyone rushed over to congratulate me, it was unreal,” Lane said.

The Claremont Football Club congratulates Kalin and wishes him all the best for his exciting journey.