Each year the Brisbane Lions exemplifies its support of the Fitzroy Football Club by sponsoring two up-and-coming stars from our senior ranks.

With stellar 2018 performances to their credit, Hilary Collett and Jack Hart have been duly honoured with this important recognition this season.

Hilary is somewhat of a veteran, having joined the Roys in 2017 after a return from a two-year sojourn in the UK, while Jack, in only his second season, can already boast a premiership. Not a mean feat and something many seasoned footballers can only dream of.

In my second year, I feel much more comfortable and at home,Jack says. Having a year of senior football under my belt has made me know what to expect and I feel much more confident about what I can contribute each week.

Hilarys homecoming coincided with that first fabulous AFLW game at Princes Park. She was totally captivated so when she saw that the ACU had an affiliated team, emailed Football Operations Manager, Sharon Torney, and registered right away with the Roys.

I couldnt wait to meet the girls and start training,says Hilary. I love the girls, I love the history of the club, and I love pulling on the jumper. Its something really special.

Jacks of the same mind. I love the playing group. We all get along so well and it just makes coming down to every training night something to look forward to.

Hilary and Jack are also in accord when it comes to what the Brisbane Lions sponsorship has meant and their determination to repay the honour with good performance.

As Jack says, its great that the Lions still have a connection with us, and I just want to do them proud.

For Hilary, making a VFLW list is a dream she holds dear. As is the chance to put her case forward and learn from the best coaches and staff in the business. Coaching is also something Im also really interested in,she says.

And Id love to help out at the juniors in the next few years.

Jacks aspirations lie closer to home, but are lofty by anyones standards. What Im aiming for is for us to win A Grade. I think we have a really strong junior program which will hopefully see a strong future for the club.

And who at Fitzroy would argue with that?!