Brisbane stalwart Zorko signs fresh deal for 2025
Steve Larkin |
Brisbane stalwart Dayne Zorko will extend his decorated AFL career into a 14th season after signing a one-year contract to play on next year.
Zorko, who turns 36 in February, has been among the Lions’ best performers this season in a revamped role across half-back.
The 272-gamer, who some pundits believed was nearing the end of his career after last year’s grand final loss to Collingwood, was shifted to defence to cover the loss of rebounding backman Keidean Coleman.
The defender suffered a season-ending knee injury in round one, prompting coach Chris Fagan to redeploy Zorko in the backline.
Veteran Zorko has revelled in the move, logging 25 disposals or more in 15 games this season, including a career-high 40 touches against Gold Coast in round nine.
“I am extremely grateful the club has allowed me to continue my journey beyond this year,” Zorko said on Thursday.
“I love this journey we have been on and love being at this football club, so to be staying on for another season is fantastic.
“There’s no ceiling with this playing group and each year we are getting stronger and closer to the pinnacle, and I want to be a part of that.”
Brisbane hold fifth spot entering their last home-and-away game against Essendon on Saturday night at the Gabba.
The Lions’ football manager Danny Daly said Zorko’s new deal was just reward for the Gold Coast-born utility.
“Dayne has had a brilliant year and he more than deserves this contract,” Daly said.
“He is showing age is no barrier and is a great example that if you put in the work and look after yourself that you can achieve anything.”
Zorko, who was Brisbane’s captain for five seasons from 2018 and is a five-time club champion, is in the frame to earn a second All Australian jumper after being selected in the ceremonial team in 2017.
AAP