PROMISING Brisbane Lions youngster Sophie Conway will miss the 2019 NAB AFL Women's season after suffering a serious knee injury while training with Richmond's VFLW team.
The Lions said Conway had sustained a torn ACL in her left knee.
The 19-year-old had been spending time with family in Melbourne, including brother Isaac, a former Brisbane rookie who now plays for VFL club Port Melbourne.
"She's a terrific kid and much loved within the team," Brisbane's women's CEO Breeanna Brock said.
"She brings a great energy and sense of fun to the group.
"We are obviously devastated but the important thing to do now is focus on her recovery."
The Lions will be given an extra draft pick to compensate for her loss, with Conway to be placed on the long-term injury list.
Conway was nominated for the NAB AFLW Rising Star in round three after two last-term goals helped the Lions to a 22-point win over Carlton.
She played six out of eight matches this year (missing two games with a shin complaint) and had developed into an important marking target in Brisbane's forward line.