Lions National Recruiting Manager Craig Brittain described Lawson as a 190cm skilful and mobile half-back / midfielder who has developed quickly through the AFL talent programs in NSW / ACT.
Lawson excelled for the North Shore Wildcats in their U18 Premier Cup Grand Final triumph over Pennant Hills playing predominantly down back. He went on to win the Wildcats’ coaches award and finished third in the club’s Best and Fairest during a presentation night held late last year.
In 2008, Lawson will be kept busy between his commitments with Sydney University AFL, the NSW U18 team and the Brisbane Lions while tackling his first year of college study.
Lawson plans to use his scholarship proceeds to stay heavily involved with the Lions as often as possible, both at training and behind the scenes. He also intends to further develop himself as a footballer by visiting specialist coaches in NSW.
The Lions will have the option to upgrade him to the Club’s senior or rookie list next season when he reaches the eligible draft age.
Lawson joins fellow New South Welshman James Brain as the Lions two NSW scholarship players for 2008.
The young defender / midfielder recently attended the Lions’ annual three-day rookie induction program at the Gabba where he was introduced to the likes of Coach Leigh Matthews and Co-Captains Jonathan Brown, Luke Power, Simon Black and Nigel Lappin.
The AFL Scholarship Program was designed in 2006 to attract young athletes from the Greater Sydney region to Australian Rules football, by providing them with a direct path to the elite AFL competition.
Through this initiative, the AFL talent program in NSW / ACT is hoping to contribute 10% of the National Talent Pool by the year 2010.
