Relaxation key to star Lion’s super 2019 season

AFL: As dedicated as Hugh McCluggage is to improving his game, it’s important for him to occasionally take his head out of it.

A work-life balance is key to the rise and rise of the hardrunning Brisbane midfielder.

“I’ve been trying all sorts of different things to get away from footy and relax,” the 21-year-old said.

There’s “a little bit of study”, by way of a business diploma and a coaching course.

“And I like to play golf on my days off. There’s about 10 or 12 of us at Brisbane Golf Club,” he said.

“That’s how I’ve got to know the older boys ... you spend four or five hours out there, pretty much you and them.”

And then there’s float tanks, otherwise known as sensory deprivation.

“Lachie Neale got the boys into that,” McCluggage explained. “He used to do it over in Perth. He found a spot here and said you should come along and try it.

“You just hop in there for an hour, and just float. There’s some sort of salts and magnesium and stuff like that.

“You just get an hour to yourself, really ... I enjoy it.”

If what McCluggage is achieving on the field is any guide, what he’s doing off it is working wonders.

In just his third season, the wingman has been integral to the Lions’ surge up the ladder – at 14-5, they could be in top spot after this round if results go their way – and surely will be up for All-Australian honours.

He needs just three disposals in today’s QClash against the Gold Coast Suns to become only the second player this season, after Fremantle’s Michael Walters, to notch at least 400 disposals and kick 20 or more goals.

“I always try and tell myself, and the coaches drive it into us, constant improvement,” McCluggage said.

“If I can’t get my hands on the ball, then my pressure might be all right or I can kick a goal. I have other avenues to