Brisbane Lions’ 2021 AFLW premiership player and inaugural team member, Kate Lutkins, has been selected to present the 2024 AFLW Premiership Cup to coach Craig Starcevich and captain Bre Koenen if the Lions emerge victorious against North Melbourne on Saturday night.
Lutkins, who announced her retirement earlier this week, was chosen by the club to honour her significant contributions throughout her distinguished career. The 33-year-old defender has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ AFLW program since its inception, earning recognition as one of the game’s elite players.
Brisbane Lions CEO Greg Swann praised Lutkins for her impact on the club and the broader AFLW community.
“Kate has been one of the best to pull on a Lions guernsey, and in light of her recent retirement, we see this as a fitting way to acknowledge her contribution to the game,” Swann said. “She has been an integral part of what we’ve built at this club from an AFLW perspective. Having her present the Cup to Craig and Bre, who have both been here for the entire journey, would be a special moment for our football club.”
Lutkins was instrumental in the Lions’ 2021 Premiership win against Adelaide, where she was awarded best on ground. Her leadership and skill have left an indelible mark on the team and its supporters.
Expressing her excitement about the opportunity, Lutkins said:
“I feel incredibly honored and humbled to be asked to present the Cup to Brisbane if they win the Grand Final on Saturday. I think it will be one of my proudest football moments handing that Cup to Bre and Craig if they win.”
The Lions are set to face North Melbourne in the AFLW Grand Final, and a victory would mark a significant achievement for the club. Lutkins’ potential role in the post-match celebrations adds an emotional layer to the occasion, symbolizing the unity and longevity of the team’s core members.
The match promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the AFLW season, with fans eagerly anticipating whether the Lions can secure the Premiership and celebrate with one of their most beloved players at the helm of the presentation.
Join us on BigFooty for the AFLW Grand Final this Saturday night to see if the Lions can clinch the title and witness Kate Lutkins’ memorable presentation.
