Brisbane Lions AFLW Premiership player Indy Tahau has informed the Club that she will need to pursue an opportunity at another AFLW Club to be closer to her family.

With her father battling illness since last year, Tahau has expressed her wishes to relocate to be with her family through this difficult time.

Drafted to the Lions in 2020, Tahau made her AFLW debut in a testing clash with Adelaide in Round 4, 2021.

The 19-year-old quickly found her feet as a versatile defender, going on to become a permanent feature in the Lions defensive unit and eventually, part of the 2021 Premiership winning side.

The young defender played 19 games across two seasons for the Lions.

Brisbane Lions Head of Women’s Football Bree Brock said that Tahau will be sorely missed.

“We’re disappointed to lose an emerging talent like Indy, but we completely understand her wish to be closer to her father while he battles illness,” Brock said.

“Over the past two seasons, we’ve seen Indy grow as both a player and a person. We know her energy, enthusiasm and natural ability will make her a great asset for any Club.

“Indy will always have a place here and is welcome back at any time.

“We will miss her dearly and wish her and her family all the best through this very tough time.”

Speaking on her decision, Tahau said that it was an emotional choice to leave Brisbane.

“This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” Tahau said.

“But time doesn’t stop for football, and it’s really important for me to be with my family and spend time with them right now.

“I’m saddened to say goodbye to Brisbane, but I’m so grateful for what they have been able to do for me. The Lions have shaped me in so many ways and I leave so proud to have played for this Club.

“I have so many great friendships, connections and memories from my time at the Lions that I’m going to cherish for the rest of my life.”