The signs were there from the pre-season when he was the big improver on the track and it came as no surprise when he was named in the side for round one.

He started the season in a new position across half back and never looked like losing his spot as he stormed his way to the Club’s Rookie of the Year award.

The 21-year-old was handed some major assignments throughout the season and thrived under the added responsibility.

By round two it was obvious Starcevich had the trust of the coaches when he was handed the job on Fremantle gun Michael Walters.

He finished that game with a career high 17 disposals and his job in keeping Walters on a tight leash was instrumental in the Lions’ 12 point win.

However it was in the round 15 victory over Collingwood, with All Australian Harris Andrews and forward Tom Fullarton both on the bench injured in the second half where he showed his fight and determination.

His 12 possession game as the Lions’ defence dug deep to deny a Pies outfit camped in their attacking half in a tense final quarter earned him his biggest vote tally of the season in Club Championship voting.

 There were also big performances against West Coast, Carlton and the qualifying final against Richmond.

Starcevich will be looking to add a greater offensive element to his game in 2021 and with an abundance of pace, power and a booming kick could push towards a permanent role in the midfield.

He is signed until the end of the 2021.