Older sister Cathy extended her current contract to 2023 and the younger of the pair, Ruby, re-signed for the 2022 season.  

Cathy was widely regarded as the best defensive midfielder in the competition in 2021 performing shut down roles on the competition’s midfield heavyweights throughout the year. 

Lions Head of Women’s Football, Bree Brock, said the Club was delighted to extend her contract out for another year along with a number of her other Premiership-winning teammates.  

“Athlete’s of Cathy Svarc’s caliber are few and far between. 

“The work that she’s put in to developing her game over the last three years has been evident in some of her performances this year against some of the best midfielders in the comp. 

“She epitomizes the team-first attitude with taking on those roles week in, week out.” 

Younger sister Ruby was snapped up by the Lions with pick No.38 in the 2020 NAB AFLW Draft after she impressed selectors with her speed.  

The 27-year-old won the Colgate Sprint at this year’s AFLW Grand Final in convincing fashion, never looking challenged over the 100-metre distance. 

Senior Coach Craig Starcevich said he was really pleased to be able to offer Ruby another contract.  

“We’re pleased to be able to offer Ruby a second season with us, as we think she has rare athletic traits and the desire and attention to detail to make a success of the opportunity.  

“She is best suited as a speedy winger, and after Rhe Lugg’s retirement we needed to add depth to that part of the ground.  

“However, Ruby is improving rapidly and has the versatility and potential to play small defender or small forward also.  

“Really looking forward to her continuing her footy journey with us.” 

Having sisters in a team is a rare and wonderful thing said Brock on the re-signings.  

“It’s fantastic for them to have each other as great support through what can be difficult training hours whilst also balancing careers. 

“It’s just a wonderful thing to be able to share an experience like this together.”