35 Ryan Lester

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Introduction
Ryan Lester is a versatile 191cm utility whose speed and strength allows him to play up forward, back in defence or even in the midfield. Although still at the beginning of his AFL development, he looks set to become a key component of the Lions' future.

 He looks likely to develop into a key quick for a player of his size, and capable of playing in defence, forward or even in the midfield. Has a booming and accurate kick and deft hands. Represented Vic Metro at the 2010 NAB AFL U18 Championships, averaging 16 disposals and four marks.

Background
• Lester proved a promising talent as a teenager, but was unfortunately dealt some hard luck through injuries during his final year with the Oakleigh Chargers in the U18 TAC Cup.

• An ankle troubled him through his final pre-season with the Chargers, before a fractured thumb just five minutes into the TAC Cup season left Lester watching from the sidelines. But he fought his way back onto the field after eight weeks and, to his own surprise, he made the Vic Metro side for the National U18 Championships.

• But in the final game of the Championships, Lester strained his hamstring which kept him out of a couple TAC Cup games. Then, in the last game of the TAC Cup season, he went over on his ankle again, missed the Chargers' first final and then hobbled through the rest of the finals.

• While his height would suggest he could play forward or back, Lester suggests his preferred position as a junior was in the midfield. However, he shone during a cameo run at full-back for Vic Metro during the National Championships which further proved his incredible versatility.

• The Lions ultimately drafted Lester with the Club's second round selection (Pick No.28 overall) at the 2010 AFL National Draft.

2011
• Lester proved the bolter of the Lions' crop of 2010 draftees, impressing coaches with his fitness throughout the pre-season period.

• He earned a regular place in the Club's pre-season campaign, playing predominantly as a third tall forward option. His safe hands and football smarts proved a feature of his game. 

• Such was his form over summer, Lester was one of three Lions selected to make his debut in Round 1 against Fremantle at the Gabba. He proceeded to collect 16 disposals, take six marks and kick a goal in his first-up senior effort.

• He kept his senior spot in each of the team's first three matches, before a stress reaction in his foot discovered after Round 3 resulted in an extended period on the sidelines.

• As it turned out, the injury forced him to miss the remainder of the season. But in just three games, Lester always looked suited to the senior AFL stage.