Former East Ringwood young gun Sam Lowson excited Coburg fans on Sunday during his VFL Senior Debut against Casey.
The mid-sized forward was invited to train with the Lions during the preseason, and has produced some impressive performances during his recent games in the Development League, including a three-goal haul against Sandringham in Round 5.
Despite being overlooked to represent Coburg in the first Development game for this year and instead returning to play for East Ringwood, his five-goal, dominant performance ensured he would get his first Development League opportunity the following week.
The 181cm, 84kg, 21-year old recruit from the Eastern Football League led the goalkicking for his team last year, with 25 goals from 18 matches, and joined Coburg following two solid EFL seasons.
“I had no idea what to expect (of the VFL), and when I asked to come do a preseason I was pretty surprised!” he said.
“Then when I was asked to sign (a contract) it shocked me because I didn’t think I would make it.”
“I felt excited and stoked to be able to play at the top level, and was really interested to see how hard and physical it would be, and to see if I could even play at that level.”
Lowson was presented with his #58 guernsey by Coburg President Kevin Breen before yesterday’s match, and admits he was feeling a bit nervous early on in the game which led to “a few silly decisions”.
But as the day progressed, he felt he was able to “grasp the speed of it” and understand what his job was.
His defensive pressure inside the Lions’ forward-50 helped him snag his first VFL senior goal, and will keep this up to help secure his spot in the side.
“I want to continue to pressure as much as possible and stick to the structures.” Lowson said.
“I’m also focussing on my goal-kicking, and making sure when I get the opportunity I take it. By doing that my chances at goal will come and I’ll have to make them count.” He continued.
Coburg General Manager Sebastian Spagnuolo was pleased Lowson chose to pursue a VFL opportunity with the club, and has no doubts about his work ethic and efforts.
“What stood out for us was his tenacity and willingness to chase and tackle as a small forward, so we set out to bring him over to the club.” GM Spagnuolo said.
“In the Development League he continued to make inroads and took on all of his coaches feedback to the point that his form couldn’t go unrewarded any further.”
“We’re really proud that Sam has now been able to now make his VFL senior debut.” the GM continued.
“The lesson from Sam’s story of 2017 so far is that if our players put in the hard work required, put into practice the learnings that they receive from their coaches, and show their desire to improve, they will be given opportunities at our football club.”
Congratulations to Sam Lowson, and Hear the Lions Roar!
[dzs_video source=”http://coburgfc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/samlowson.mp4″ config=”skinauroradefault” height=””]
