The “Paddle Pop Lion” guernsey design has been ditched by a new-look Brisbane – but the AFL club is not presuming they finally have all their troubles licked.
There is rare optimism at Brisbane after the popular decision to return to the traditional Fitzroy lion look for 2015.
Ditching the maligned lion design that critics believed more closely resembled a certain ice cream feline character follows a successful trade period that nabbed the signings of Dayne Beams and Allen Christensen.
There was also the talk of bringing a live lion to games, but that too has fortunately gone out the window.
Just like their guernsey, the Lions midfield now resembles their glory days with the new duo joining the likes of All-Australian Tom Rockliff, Pearce Hanley, Daniel Rich, Jack Redden, Dayne Zorko, James Aish, Sam Mayes as well as ruckmen Matthew Leuenberger and Stef Martin.
It is a remarkable turnaround from 12 months ago when serious questions were asked about the Lions culture after five youngsters left amid a messy boardroom stoush.
However, vice-captain Rockliff said it was one thing looking like the Lions of old, now they had to start winning matches like them.
“You’ve got to remember your past but you’ve also got to build on the present, and that’s the most important thing for us,” Rockliff told reporters in Brisbane on Tuesday.
“This time last year a lot of people were writing us off – it’s nice to have a bit of positive media around the footy club.
“You can do all the talking you want, but it’s most important you go out there and perform on the weekend during the season.”
Knoxy
Guest
When will AFL clubs learn? Stupid, gimmicky cartoon designs never look as good as classic football jumpers. I don't think clash strips would be as controversial as they are if the clubs just went with simple, traditional designs for those too. Most clash strips used over the years have been appalling. Stop letting marketing tools ruin the look of clubs with this tacky crap. The same thing goes for club logos.
H.E. Pennypacker
Guest
They should get the mongram back with the same colours Fitzroy used.
AR
Guest
Agreed. Cunning media management.
Bob Gooch
Guest
Great to see the Lions listened to their members and have gone back to their grass roots. As a Melbourne FC member, I can only live in hope that they will listen to its members and return the club to its heartland. But I am not holding my breath !
TomC
Roar Guru
I think the 'live lion' was just a cheap way to take attention off the AFL agreeing to give them $3m to pay their debt for 2014, which was announced on the same day. It was never going to happen.
Mister Football
Roar Guru
I'm disappointed they didn't persist with the live lion, but good decision to return to the traditional lion emblem.
Penster
Guest
Cameron Ling had no place on the Lion's mascot. Glad they're remembering their Fitzroy heritage, maybe some of the Fitzroy faithful will return to the fold.
Franko
Guest
Slowly they are turning the club around. Fully expect the Lions to be pushing the 8 on the field and hopefully doing well off it.
TomC
Roar Guru
About time.
AR
Guest
Symbols are important for clubs. Bravo to the Brisbane members for voting to have their symbol returned. I think 2015 and beyond will see a prominent Lions' resurgence. Good on em!