Yarrawonga's Ely Smith looks to take next step to AFL level at Brisbane

The 20-year-old was chosen at No.21 by the emerging Lions in the 2018 AFL Draft, but hasn't been able to break into the classy midfield, led by Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale.

"Our midfield was really, really good and there were next to no injuries, they were all pretty lucky in that aspect, so obviously it was pretty tough for me to try and get in the side," he said.

The Lions eventually fell to Geelong in the preliminary final and Smith knows he faces another battle to grab that elusive start at the elite level.

"If I could say what I want to change, I want to start next year how I play," he offered.

"I want to start sticking to my strengths, that's use the ball and burst out of stoppages, using my power and speed.

"I want to see more of those things in my game and making sure I'm doing all those things consistently, as well as sticking to the structures and defensive (patterns)."

Smith shot to prominence, at least in the Ovens and Murray Football League, with a best on ground performance for Yarrawonga against perennial finalists Lavington in June, 2018.

The schoolboy's display showed maturity far beyond his years, racking up 31 disposals and a goal in the three-point win.

And it was that ability to burst from stoppages which caught the attention.

Like all fringe players at AFL level this year with COVID-19's impact, Smith was forced to play scratch matches to maintain touch and form, just in case the senior call came.

"In the end of year interview, they (the coaches) said you've just got to keep doing what you're doing, making sure you're training really well and you're improving your craft, as we know you would, and keep chipping away at that aerobic base and get a little bit fitter," he explained.

And it's not just the on-field aspects which have proven an enormous challenge in Smith's embryonic career.

"It's just how hard it is to do everything that is required at that level, the off-field matters," he said candidly.

"On the field, there's so much to take in with the types of decisions you make, the set plays, the structures and the places you have to be on the field at any time."

Although naturally disappointed to miss selection this year, Smith can take tremendous heart from the re-emergence of the Lions as a public force, with Brisbane a fanatical rugby league 'town' of its beloved Broncos.

"One-hundred percent, most home games were pretty much sold out, the Gabba was packed," he said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"Everyone was talking about the Lions in local shops and cafes, there's more people getting involved, wherever you go."

The hard-running, tackle-busting on-baller is now hoping to make his mark as the Lions look to push one step further.