Mr Jason Akermanis

Jason Akermanis was often outspoken and regularly provocative, polarising opinions across the AFL community. Through a record-breaking 16-year career, he did it his way. But when it came to pure class, there was no debate. He was simply brilliant.

It was often said he was the best kick in the competition right foot, and the second-best kick in the competition left foot. With ball in hand the tearaway midfielder was pure artistry.

Born in Mildura but a Queenslander from age nine and a product of the Mayne Tigers, he played 325 games and kicked 421 goals for the Brisbane Lions and the Western Bulldogs from 1995-2010, and was a pivotal member of the Lions’ triple premiership team of 2001-02-03.

He won the Brownlow Medal in 2001, was a four-time All-Australian choice, and represented Australia with distinction in the International Rules series.

No Queenslander has played more often at the elite level or enjoyed more wins. Only key forwards Jason Dunstall and Nick Riewoldt have kicked more goals. And only Michael Voss has had more possessions. 

Known far and wide as ‘Aker’, he is a member of the Brisbane Lions, AFL Queensland and AFL Hall of Fame, and is now a member of the Queensland Sport Hall of Fame.