If it wasn’t for the Brisbane Lions’ hat-trick of premierships from 2001-2003, Sam Michael might never have pursued an AFL career.

Michael revealed on Wednesday that the 3-Peat played a significant role in determining his future.

“When I first started playing footy in Cairns, AFL was only a small part of the community, but after the three Lions premierships it became much larger,” Michael told fans during his live chat with lions.com.au.

“As a result, I was inspired to pursue AFL as a profession.”

Michael’s AFL dream was realised at the end of 2011 when the Lions used their Queensland Priority Selection to draft him onto the Club’s rookie list.

He has since grown considerably – both physically and as a player – and has produced a number of standout performances along the way.

Only last week he was awarded the Zane Taylor Medal as Queensland’s best player in the annual State game, after taking home the Andrew Ireland Medal in last year’s NEAFL Cross Conference Grand Final.

Michael said representing his home State was one of greatest thrills yet.     

“It was a massive honor to be given the opportunity to play for Queensland,” Michael said.

“I was lucky enough to play for the U18 State side, so to then be able to play for the senior State side against SA was really exciting and a great experience.”

He credits having a small taste of senior AFL action during the 2013 NAB Cup competition as one of the reasons behind his good form in the NEAFL.

“I got some great experience in the NAB Cup that I have been able to use while playing reserves, and I have just started to string a few good games together so hopefully a few more opportunities will open up as the year progresses,” he said.

Like all players, a senior berth is what he’s ultimately striving for, but his rookie status means that he needs to be promoted to the senior list before he can be considered for selection.

Read the full transcript from Sam Michael's live chat