- Leo Lombard was excited when his name was read on Wednesday
- Gold Coast Academy star to play for Suns again next year
It was a busy night for the AFL on Wednesday as the league’s select clubs made their draft selections for the upcoming season.
But there was an X moment during the process when former Gold Coast Academy star Leo Lombard was kidnapped.
Lombard, 18, is the son of former UFC light heavyweight fighter Hector Lombard.
St Kilda had shown interest in the 179cm midfielder overnight and had taken a punt on the 18-year-old star with their ninth pick.
Gold Coast, already aware of the midfield star’s exceptional goal-kicking talent, matched his offer and got their man.
Jake Rogers, who signed with the Suns last year and is a close acquaintance of Lombard, presented him with his Gold Coast jersey.
Warning: strong language
Leo Lombard (right) was selected by the Gold Coast Suns during Wednesday night’s draft.
Lombard put his hand over his mouth after he appeared to make the X-rated comment.
“I’ve always looked up to him and he’s practically my big brother,” Lombard said, after taking to the stage for an interview with Fox Footy presenter Ben Dixon.
Lombard has been at the Gold Coast Academy since he was 12 and thanked the Suns for helping him on his football journey.
“They’ve taken care of me on and off the field, and it sure holds a special place (in my heart).”
He also took a moment to thank his family and girlfriend, but the interview got a little sidetracked after that.
‘Congratulations Leo!’ Dixon said. ‘You are a sun!’
Members of the public began applauding the midfielder earlier.
But an excited Lombard humorously replied: ‘Fuck, yes.
Fox Footy commentator Sarah Jones responded: “Ooopsie Leo… so excited…”
But he laughed at the time and shook Ben Dixon’s hand before leaving the stage.
Lombard appeared to laugh at the time, covering his mouth with his hand before shaking Dixon’s hand and leaving the stage.
Former St Kilda great Leigh Montagna added: “We’ll give him a pass.” He will learn from that.
Lombard is an explosive player and has proven to be one of the Sun’s academy breakout stars in 2024.
His father, Hector, has an MMA fight record of 34-10-1, having fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship 12 times during his professional career.