In 2008 Tom Rockliff, a medium-sized, smart and creative forward, was the leading goalkicker in the TAC Cup with 59 goals and won the Murray Bushrangers' best and fairest award, but was overlooked in the main draft.
16 Facts About Tom Rockliff
1.
2.
Tom Rockliff was drafted by the Brisbane Lions with the fifth selection in the 2009 pre-season draft.
3.
Tom Rockliff served as the captain of the Brisbane Lions in 2015 and 2016.
4.
Tom Rockliff made his AFL debut in round 18,2009 against Collingwood, which was the only match he played that season.
5.
Tom Rockliff recorded five possessions as Brisbane lost by 40 points.
6.
In 2010, Tom Rockliff forced his way back into the senior Brisbane Lions side in round 3,2010 where he has since featured predominantly in the midfield rotation.
7.
Tom Rockliff received an AFL Rising Star nomination in round 13,2010 and despite being heavily favoured to win the award, he finished third behind winner Dan Hannebery and Tom Scully in the end of year voting.
8.
Tom Rockliff was rewarded by winning the club's best and fairest award over favourite Simon Black, who had a strong season.
9.
Tom Rockliff finished equal fifth in the Brownlow Medal count, polling 21 votes.
10.
In 2014, Tom Rockliff established himself as one of the elite midfielders of the competition, averaging a league-high 32.7 disposals and 9.1 tackles a game and recording 40 or more disposals five times.
11.
In round 18 in the Q-Clash against Gold Coast, Tom Rockliff gathered a career-high 47 disposals as well as 10 tackles.
12.
Tom Rockliff was selected in the 2014 All-Australian Team on the Interchange after his remarkable season that was recognised.
13.
In January 2015, it was announced that Tom Rockliff would become the next captain of the Brisbane Lions, succeeding Jed Adcock.
14.
Tom Rockliff lasted two years in the role and was succeeded by Dayne Beams in 2017.
15.
Tom Rockliff joined Port Adelaide as a restricted free agent during the 2017 trade period after Brisbane elected not to match Port Adelaide's contract offer.
16.
Tom Rockliff announced his immediate retirement on August 8,2021, citing injuries.