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Darcy Gardiner

Last updated on November 25, 2024 at 18:09 pm

Posted on May 30, 2024 at 07:25 am

Darcy Gardiner

Personal information

Full name

Darcy Gardiner

Nickname(s)

Dizzy, Dizz

Date of birth

22 September 1995 (age 28)

Place of birth

Queenscliff

Original team(s)

Geelong Falcons (TAC Cup)Queenscliff Football Club

Draft

No. 22, 2013 National Draft, Brisbane Lions

Height

192 cm (6 ft 4 in)

Weight

87 kg (192 lb)

Position(s)

Back pocket

Club information

Current club

Brisbane Lions

Number

27

Playing career

Years

Club

Games (Goals)


2014–

Brisbane Lions

161 (6)


Career highlights

  • 2014 AFL Rising Star nominee

  • St Joseph’s College Team of Champions

 Emerging AFL talent Darcy Gardiner shines brightly as a defensive powerhouse for the Brisbane Lions. His exceptional one-on-one defending skills and intercept marking make him a valuable asset to the team. With a notable 667 tackles and 1970 disposals in 161 games played, Gardiner demonstrates consistency and defensive prowess. As a Rising Star nominee and respected figure in the AFL community, his impact is substantial. Explore further into his career to uncover how Gardiner’s dedication and natural talent have solidified his reputation as a key player and positive influence both on and off the field.

Early Life and Background

Darcy Gardiner, the promising Australian rules footballer, was born in Queensland, Australia. Raised in a sports-loving family, Gardiner’s passion for football began at a young age. Growing up, he dedicated countless hours to honing his skills on the field, displaying natural talent and determination.

His early years were marked by a relentless work ethic and a desire to succeed in the sport. Gardiner’s commitment to training and development set the foundation for his future success in Australian rules football. His journey from a talented youngster to a professional athlete is a proof of his perseverance and dedication to the game.

Career Overview

Gardiner’s journey from his early years marked by dedication and hard work to his current status as a seasoned Australian rules footballer showcases his progression and achievements in the sport.

With 161 games under his belt, he has amassed 1189 kicks, 781 handballs, and 1970 disposals. Known for his defensive prowess, Gardiner has notched up an impressive 667 tackles throughout his career.

Despite the challenges faced during the 2020 season due to COVID-19, Gardiner’s resilience and commitment to the game have been evident in his consistent performance on the field.

His dedication to the sport has been recognized with an AFL Rising Star nominee title in 2014, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in Australian rules football.

Playing Style and Skills

Known for his defensive prowess and strong work ethic, this seasoned Australian rules footballer exhibits a strategic playing style and refined set of skills on the field. His impressive attributes include:

  1. Lockdown Defender: Gardiner is known for his ability to shut down some of the most dangerous forwards in the league, showcasing exceptional one-on-one defending skills.

  2. Intercept Marking: With his excellent reading of the game, Gardiner often intercepts opposition kicks and marks, providing vital turnovers for his team.

  3. Rebounding: Despite his defensive role, Gardiner is also effective in initiating attacking plays from the backline, displaying composure and precision in his disposals.

These skills combined make Darcy Gardiner a valuable asset to his team’s defensive line.

Statistics

Stat

2024 Season Average

Career Average

Standout Season Performance

Standout Career Performance

Career Total

Disposals

8.1

12.1

13 against Melbourne (Round 5)

27 against Carlton (Round 5, 2018)

2001

Kicks

5.1

7.3

10 against Melbourne (Round 5)

15 against Hawthorn (Round 5, 2019)

1212

Goals

0.4

0.1

2 against Gold Coast SUNS (Round 8)

2 against Gold Coast SUNS (Round 8, 2024)

8


Shot at Goal Accuracy (%)

60

57.1

100 against Gold Coast SUNS (Round 8)

100 against Gold Coast SUNS (Round 8, 2024)

-

Marks

2.6

4.1

6 against Melbourne (Round 5)

15 against Carlton (Round 5, 2018)

677

Tackles

1.9

1.9

4 against GWS GIANTS (Round 7)

8 against Western Bulldogs (Round 7, 2016)

310

Fantasy Points

38.1

49.1

68 against Melbourne (Round 5)

118 against Carlton (Round 5, 2018)

8108

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Darcy Gardiner has left a lasting legacy and made a significant impact on the Brisbane Lions and the AFL. His contributions are evident in various aspects:

  1. Defensive Stability: Gardiner’s consistency in defense has provided the Lions with a reliable presence, often shutting down key opposition forwards.

  2. Leadership: Serving as a role model for younger players, Gardiner’s professionalism and work ethic have influenced the team positively.

  3. Community Engagement: Beyond the field, Gardiner has actively participated in community initiatives, enhancing the Lions’ connection with their fan base.

Gardiner’s legacy extends beyond his on-field performances, solidifying his place as a respected figure within the Brisbane Lions and the broader AFL community.

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