Season by Season Continued to grow as one of the most exciting young midfielders in the league, leading Fremantle for disposals and clearances in 2017. The 24-year-old backed up his Doig Medal-winning season with a runner-up finish in 2017 and reached the 100-game milestone in Freo’s thrilling win over Richmond in round eight. The South Australian youngster debuted under the spotlight of the Friday night lights at Etihad in round 4 against St Kilda. He came on as the sub in the third term and made his presence felt with a number of contested possessions, often in packs. Neale ended up playing 11 games and kicking four goals, one of which was nominated for AFL Goal of the Year in round 8 against Hawthorn. A solid first season from Neale and expect to see him push for more games in 2013. A candidate for the most improved player at the club, Neale was excellent in the midfield for the latter part of the season. He played the last 10 games, including the Grand FinalPlayer Sponsor At a Glance Junior club: Kybybolite (SA) Recruited from: Glenelg (SA) Draft information: National Draft 2011 - pick 58 Debut: Round 4, 2012 v St Kilda AFL clubs: Fremantle Career Brownlow votes: 63 A clear standout in one of the most memorable individual season performances in Fremantle history. His 737-disposal season is the highest recorded total since Champion Data started recording the stat in 1999. The 23-year-old broke the 40-disposal barrier on five occasions on his way to winning the Doig Medal as Freo’s best and fairest. It was a breakout year for the small midfielder. He won the Ross Glendinning Medal in round seven and was close to Freo’s best player in the Semi-Final against Port Adelaide. He has a bright future. Neale continued to grow as a player
in 2015 and is now among Freo’s top midfielders. Selection in the 40-man All Australian squad and 22under22 team was testament to his continued rise. SUMMARY Neale backed up his 2016 Doig Medal win with a runner-up finish in 2017, continuing to perform as one of the league’s most exciting young midfielders. A groin injury slowed Neale late in the 2017 season but he has since recovered and the 24-year-old competed at his usual best in the club’s intra-club match. WHAT THE COACH SAYS (Anthony Rock) Completed a rehab program pre-Christmas. He’s come back into it looking fit and lean, exploding and powerful away from stoppage clearances. Looking for a big year from Lachie.
