Australian Football

An explosive utility player who became Queensland's second Brownlow Medalist in 2001, Jason Akermanis was a key member of the Brisbane Lions triple premiership sides of 2001, 2002, and 2003 and was named first rover in the Queensland Team of the Century.

Born in Mildura but a product of Mayne (QAFL), Akermanis was an All-Australian Teal Cup selection in 1994, making his AFL debut the following year. He was a 'good ordinary' player prior to 1998, but was transformed into a 'great' player when new coach Leigh Matthews switched him to the back pocket in 1999. He won All-Australian selection in 1999, 2001, 2002, and 2004, was awarded the Jim Stynes Medal in the International Rules competition in 1993, and claimed the Lions Best & Fairest award in 1999 and 2005, on top of his 2001 Brownlow Medal.

Blessed with extraordinary kicking skills and wonderful finishing capabilities, he was used through the midfield and as a goal-kicking forward (often scoring 'impossible' goals from deep on the flanks) throughout the Lions halcyon days, forming an outstanding mid-field combination with Simon Black and Michael Voss, among others.

Off the field he created for himself a significant media profile, becoming known for his outspoken views, some of which ruffled feathers within the club and ultimately led to a breakdown in his relationship with the coach. In late 2006, after 248 games for 307 goals with the Lions, he was on the move.

Picked up by the Western Bulldogs in 2007, Akermanis was a solid contributor for three seasons, but in circumstances similar to his demise in Brisbane, was sacked in mid-2010 after antagonizing teammates and administrators alike. His 77 games and 114 goals for the dogs took his overall AFL total to 325 games and 421 goals.

Author - Murray Bird and Peter Blucher, with additional material from Adam Cardosi