Brisbane Lion and former Sunshine Coast junior Daniel Dzufer says 2009 could be his final chance to impress in the AFL.
The career of the former Caloundra Panthers junior has stalled over the last few years, appearing just once for the Lions – when he made his debut against Port Adelaide in round 13 in 2007.
However he may receive a football reprieve after Michael Voss took the reins at Lions headquarters.
After receiving two caps in the pre-season NAB Cup, Dzufer says the future is looking good for his flagging career.
“This is probably my make or break year,” he said.
“I’ve got to try and put my best forward and get as many games as I can to get on that senior list.
“I got the first two games, which was good for the experience factor I suppose.
“It’s been a long pre-season but a good one so I’m looking forward to getting out there.”
Speaking at an AFL training clinic at Fishermans Road yesterday, Dzufer said he faces a difficult task trying to muscle his way into the Lions backline which includes the likes of Josh Drummond, Daniel Merrett and Joel Patfull.
However the versatile 21-year-old could find his best chance of securing an opening is in the midfield.
With the side’s 2009 squad yet to be cemented, he said he was encouraged by the clean slate which Voss had seemingly wiped at the club.
“He says he counts everyone as an equal, so if I play well in the reserves I’ll get a game,” he said.
“The first couple of weeks I have to get my form up through the reserves and put my name forward.”
Article written by Steve Zemek at the Sunshine Coast Daily.
Last Modified on 31/03/2009 17:31