Teenager takes long-term view and stays with pride

BRISBANE young gun Alex Witherden says the opportunity to create a new legacy at the Lions is what drove him to sign with the club for another two years.

The Lions announced the contract extension of the excit- ing prospect yesterday, after Witherden sought advice from captain Dayne Beams on his future.

The 19-year-old, who made his debut in Round 14 last year, says he knew before the Christmas break that he wanted to remain in Brisbane.

But it was a chat with Beams that really helped seal the deal.

“I came back after the Christmas break and I sat down with Dayne for an hour or so,” he said.

“After speaking with him I came to the conclusion that this is where I wanted to be for the next couple of years.

“We spoke about the direction of the club and the opportunity we have as a group to keep building, growing and learning together.

“He’s come from Collingwood where they got together as a young group and ended up winning a flag.

“That’s massive motivation. There’s an opportunity to create a legacy at this club.

“The club has struggled for a few years but we see this as an opportunity to rise up again.”

The Geelong product said it was an easy decision in the end, despite the fact all his family are in Victoria.