Brisbane has extended the contracts of Queensland teenagers Tom Fullarton and Connor McFadyen until the end of 2021, despite the duo not having made their AFL debut.
The Queensland products will strive to make their senior debuts in 2019 after being star performers in the Lions NEAFL side last year.
Fullarton made the switch from basketball's Brisbane Bullets midway through 2018, signing on as a category player. The 200cm tall forward previously represented the under-15 All Australian AFL team, and played two games for the Lions upon his return last year.
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"It was always in the back of my mind when I was playing basketball that I could go back to footy and I'm glad I did," Fullarton said during Brisbane's pre-season training camp in Hobart.
"Each day I've been coming in with an open mind to work on everything I can to catch up.
"Last year was my draft year anyway. I feel like I'm not far behind the mark. I've still got a lot to work on, but as long as I work hard I'll be able to make up that ground."
After six months training with the Brisbane side, the 19-year-old said that he's feeling more comfortable and confident with his teammates ahead of the impending season.
“I think that helps as well, being more comfortable around the playing group, knowing them a bit more on a personal level,” he told the Lions.
“It’s really fun going to work every day.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time so far with the Club and am really looking forward to playing footy again in 2019.”
McFayden on the other hand, has come through the ranks as a long-term Academy member and was taken with the Club’s Pick No.42 in last year's AFL National Draft.
The 18-year-old is yet to start training with the senior side after sustaining a fractured foot near the end of the 2018 NEAFL season.
"Not long after I got drafted my manager spoke to the Lions … they were happy to sign a three-year deal and I was pretty stoked about that," McFadyen said.
"It gives me time to get my body right and not have to rush into things."
Great news for your Sunday! 🙌
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) January 19, 2019
Two Lions sign on: https://t.co/K3zQDZA0y9 pic.twitter.com/bO2Y7cEUVF
The Lions will kick-off their 2019 season against West Coast Eagles at the Gabba on Saturday, March 23.