He’s long been heralded as the people’s champion of the Brisbane Lions and tonight Jonathan Brown was officially recognised by being inducted into the Club’s Hall of Fame.

In his fifteen seasons with the Lions, Brown won three AFL Premierships, played in four consecutive grand finals, was Captain between 2009-2012, Co-Captain from 2007-2008 and 2013, a dual All-Australian and three-time Club Champion.

Brown said he was humbled to be inducted into the Lions’ Hall of Fame, after only ever dreaming to play for the Lions. 

“It’s a good time to reflect and feel proud of my career after playing for the same Club as my father. It’s really nice to have him here with me, it really is a family affair,” he said.

“It’s a huge part of my life, growing up all I wanted to do was play for the Lions.”

 

“Browny” as he is affectionately known, played senior country football at South Warrnambool Football Club as a 15-year-old and arrived at the Lions via the 1999 AFL National Draft. He was touted early to be a high pick, but had already pledged his allegiance to the Lions, as father Brian had played 50 games for Fitzroy between 1976-79 and 1981. It was this kind of loyalty which endeared him to Lions fans early.

He made his AFL debut in Round 5, 2000 against the Adelaide Crows but failed to record a disposal for the match. However, his performances that year began to improve, finishing with 13 matches and five goals.

As a 19-year-old he won his first premiership with the Lions in 2001, playing at centre half forward. It was just the start of something special, with Brown going on to play in four consecutive Grand Finals.

“You can never top the premierships, they were unbelievable,” he said.

During his time with the Lions, Brown and his teammates built a fortress at The Gabba, with interstate clubs dreading their trip to Queensland.

 “The roar of the crowd when I ran out was something I’ll never forget and I’ll cherish forever,” Brown said.

But what he is most proud of is the friendships with his teammates and staff he has made along the way.

 “Not only the players, but so many people around the football club who will be lifelong friends,” he said.

“The memories of the relationships you created during that time is what I hold dear.”

Brown retired in 2014 due to ongoing concussion problems. He finished his glittering career as a one club man, with career stats of 256 games and 594 goals.

He is still revered at The Gabba and is often spotted in the Lions’ changerooms after their games.

Brown is now a respected media commentator and has three young children with his wife Kylie.