Tom Rockliff has slipped under the radar his whole life, but now he is fast becoming one of the AFL’s elite, if he isn’t there already.
The Lions star has dominated in season 2014 and looks set to be his club’s next captain.
In his return from suspension, Rockliff notched up a massive 47 disposals, 11 clearances and 10 tackles against a disappointing Gold Coast outfit on Saturday.
It is hard to imagine that Rockliff was overlooked by all 16 clubs in the 2008 National Draft.
Playing as a creative medium-sized forward, Rockliff booted 59 goals and won the Murray Bushrangers’ best and fairest award. His quality performance in the TAC Cup grand final was overshadowed by eventual first-rounder Steele Sidebottom, who booted 10 goals.
Still, it was quite the surprise that Rockliff had to wait until selection five in the pre-season draft to hear his name called out by the Lions.
Despite being a star player for a number of years now, the 24-year-old has not had the attention he would have received had he played for a Victorian based club.
Rockliff plays with his heart on his sleeve, which can often land him in strife from the tribunal and even opposition coaches. But I get the sense that if you are a Brisbane supporter you would not want it any other way.
He possesses a number of traits that make you think he will become a great leader of that club. His defensive pressure as a midfielder is superb and you get the feeling that he has a genuine love for the club.
When he was miked up by Fox Footy during a game last season, his on-field leadership and direction he gave to the younger players stood out.
Rockliff is ranked second in the competition in total disposals, first in tackles, sixth in contested possessions and eighth in clearances.
Those are very impressive numbers by anyone’s standards.
Twitter – @jclark182
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