Dayne Zorko can probably expect greater attention from opposition teams this year, after emerging as one of the Brisbane Lions’ deadliest weapons in 2012.

Zorko’s reputation has soared in the past 12 months to the point where the born-and-bred Queenslander is already a fan favourite at the Gabba.

His popularity is most evident by the increasing amount of supporters who now have the number 15 emblazoned on the back of their guernsey.

Zorko celebrated his 24th birthday in style with Lions fans at Yeronga on Saturday during the Club’s annual Family Fun Day.  

"I was here last year, but it was a fair bit quieter for me," Zorko told The Courier Mail.

“Nobody would have known who I was. It's a bit of a change but I'm enjoying it."

But with an improved profile, comes greater on-field challenges – and Zorko’s name will now receive greater scrutiny when the coaches of the 17 other AFL teams formulate a plan to combat the Lions in 2013.

Regardless of the added pressure, he remains determined to avoid the dreaded ‘second year blues’.  

"I've been fortunate to have Richy here at the club. He struggled a bit in his second year so I've learned a lot from him," Zorko told The Courier Mail.

"We've had quite a few chats about it and Vossy has been really good too."

"I'm well past that now and done a hell of a lot more work which will hopefully keep me in good stead and help me run out games better.”