35 possessions, nine clearances, nine tackles and 5 goals, yes that’s correct, these stats you would be amazed if a modern player achieved, but this is an example of the extraordinary height of the games that Jason Akermanis could achieve. Not only was Akermanis an elite onballer/ rover that could rack up the possessions, but he was also an exceptional goal kicker, often scoring ‘impossible’ goals from deep on the flanks.
He is best known for his time with the Brisbane Lions, where he played from 1997 to 2006. Akermanis was a key player in the Lions’ successful era, which saw them win three consecutive AFL premierships in 2001, 2002, and 2003. He was known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability.
Jason Akermanis is a former Australian rules football player who is best known for his time with the Brisbane Lions, where he played from 1997 to 2006 and helped the lions become one of the greatest teams of the century, appearing in four consecutive grand finals from 2001 to 2004, and winning three premierships (2001, 2002, 2003).
During his career, Akermanis was recognized with numerous accolades, including the highest individual honour bestowed on a player, the Brownlow Medal in 2001. He also earned All-Australian selection five times and was a three-time recipient of the Lions’ Best and Fairest award.
However, Akermanis was also a controversial figure in the AFL due to his outspoken nature and clashes with coaches and teammates. He played his final seasons with the Western Bulldogs from 2007 to 2010 before retiring from professional football.
Since retiring in 2010, Akermanis has remained involved in various football-related activities, including media work as a television commentator and columnist. He has also pursued other interests, such as appearing on reality television shows and writing a book about his experiences in the AFL.
Playing career
1995-2010
Brisbane Lions 1995-2006
Western Bulldogs 2007-2010
Games
325 games (Brisbane Lions 248; Western Bulldogs 77)
Goals
421 (Brisbane Lions 307; Western Bulldogs 114)
Player honours
- Brownlow Medal 2001
- Brisbane Lions best & fairest 1999, 2005;
- Brisbane Lions leading goalkicker 2004
- Western Bulldogs leading goalkicker 2009
- Brisbane Lions premierships 2001, 2002, 2003
- 2× Merrett-Murray Medal: 1999, 2005
- All-Australian 1999, 2001, 2002, 2004
- State representative (Allies 3 games)
- International Rules (4 games)
- Jim Stynes Medal 1999
- Australian Football League Life Member: 2008
- Australian Football Hall of Fame: Inducted 2015
