Every year the Brisbane Lions sponsors two young guns from the senior ranks of the Fitzroy Football Club.

In season 2023 the honours go VAFA Round 6 Rising Star, Simone Mooney from the Women's squad, and back and wingman specialist Rhys Seakins from the Senior Men.

Graduating from the Fitzroy Juniors this year, Simone has featured in the best players every week in her debut season for the Roys.

“Simone’s been amazing this year for the senior club,” says coach Nathan Jumeau. “From her very first game since stepping up from the Fitzroy Juniors’ Youth Girls team, she’s played a massive role in the midfield, also finding the goals with pleasing regularity.”

Like Simone, Rhys Seakins followed a pathway from the Fitzroy Juniors to the Seniors, impressing coaches and supporters first as a member of the Roys’ elite back six, and more lately roaming the wings.

“From the moment he stepped up from the Juniors, Rhys has lit up the field with creative intercept marking from the backline,” Senior Coach Luke Mahoney says. “Or, as a patrolling wingman, with explosive dash and drive, delivering the ball into the forward line with precision.”

Throughout his time as Brisbane Lions’ Victorian Manager, Sam Lord has understood the importance of the Lions’ strong relationship with Fitzroy Football Club and the Fitzroy Juniors. “In the famous old club’s 140th anniversary year, this connection is more important than ever,” says Sam. 

“We are committed to continuing this connection and honoured to be sponsoring Simone and Rhys this year.

“We wish them both all the very best this season, and will be following their ensuing careers with interest.”