Simon Black is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in the history of Australian rules football. Born on March 3rd, 1979, in Mount Isa, Queensland, Black played his entire 16-year career with the Brisbane Lions from 1998 to 2013.
Black is known for his exceptional ball skills, hand-eye coordination, and awareness of the field around him. He is renowned for his tireless work ethic and pinpoint accuracy with both his handball and kicking abilities. Throughout his career, he amassed a total of 322 games and kicked 175 goals, earning him a place amongst the greatest players to ever grace the AFL.
Throughout his career, Black has been recognized for his outstanding performances, including being awarded the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground in the 2003 Grand Final against the Collingwood Magpies, where he amassed an impressive 39 possessions and 3 goals. He has also been selected for the All-Australian team four times (2001, 2002, 2004, and 2007) and won the Brisbane Lions’ Best and Fairest award three times (2001, 2002, and 2006).
Following his retirement from playing in 2013, Black has turned his attention to coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Brisbane Lions since 2014. Black is known to be a great teacher and communicator, using his exceptional knowledge of the game to help up-and-coming talent reach their full potential both on and off the field.
Off the field, Black is known for his humble and grounded nature as well as his love for his family, including his wife Catherine and their three children. With his outstanding playing career and his passion for coaching, Simon Black is a true legend and inspiration in the world of Australian rules football.