Energetic Brisbane Lions forward Kai Lohmann has declared he is "here to stay" after turning down big offers to return to Victoria at the end of last season.
The 20-year-old has forced his way into the star-studded Lions forward line after being restricted to just eight games in his first two years in Brisbane.
Originally from Maryborough in regional Victoria, Lohmann resisted the pull of home, and potentially greater on-field opportunities elsewhere, to stay in the Queensland capital until at least the end of 2025.
"It's great to stick around and try to get that premiership that we're all after," Lohmann told AAP.
"So I'm here to stay and here to do well."
Lohmann's spark has helped turn the Lions' season around after last year's beaten grand finalists began 2024 with three straight defeats.
The former No.20 draft pick had limited minutes when the sub in those first three games, but has taken his chance after being included in the starting 22 for wins over North Melbourne and Melbourne.
Playing his first game at the MCG, Lohmann kicked a crucial goal in the Lions' 22-point upset of the Demons on Thursday night - the club's first home-and-away victory at the venue since 2014.
"I just want to be in this team," he said.
"It's such a good group and we're destined for success.
"I'm pretty excited to get in and hopefully I can hold my spot.
"Coming here as a kid, it was pretty cool watching (Lions spearhead) Joey (Daniher) at the 'G on Anzac Day (when he was playing for Essendon).
"It was great to get a win with the boys and get our season kick-started. It was unreal."
Despite the pressure that built on the Lions after their 0-3 start, Lohmann insists the group never lost confidence or faith in each other.
"There's so much energy now with the group, we're in such a good place," he said.
"I just love playing with this group, it's just so much fun.
"Trying to make an impact when I come on, but last few weeks I've played so pretty happy with that."
