Hanley: I was drunk for the first two years
July 11, 2015
Pearce Hanley training with the Irish International Rules squad at Patersons Stadium, Perth.
©INPHO/Cathal Noonan.
Ahead of his 100th appearance for the Brisbane Lions tomorrow, Pearce Hanley has recalled how his AFL career almost didn't happen because of his party lifestyle.
The former Mayo underage star joined the Lions in 2007 and has put his partying ways behind him to become one of Ireland's most successful Aussie Rules exports.
"I think I was drunk my first two years," he admitted to AFL.com
"I got in a bit of strife and thought I was in a bit of trouble. The club were very good to stand by me.
"I thought I wasn't going to be given another contract and I thought I was going to be sent home. I remember I got a bit emotional in front of the boys and I think from there I turned my year around.
"The next pre-season I knuckled down and from there my game has got better and better and I've turned into the player I am today."
The 26-year-old will join the Lions' centenary club when he lines out against the Sydney Swans at the Gabba tomorrow.
Tweet
