Stergiou fulfilling Lions’ need for speed

Albert Einstein once said, in the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.

While Subiaco have been challenged in 2022 through a variety of factors including COVID-19, quality opposition, and the game’s evolution over time, a pillar of consistency has been one of the club’s League debutants.

In round one, Jake Stergiou earned an opportunity in the Lions backline, and hasn’t taken a backward step since.

The 24-year-old is averaging over 10 disposals per game and 2.8 marks per game, but it’s his speed and his ability to break the lines that have been a trademark of his game.

Despite the strong start in his career, Stergiou told Subiacofc.com.au he’s still learning his craft.

“I feel like I’m going okay, I’ve still got a lot to learn,” he said.

“I’ve put some good patches together, but I still need to find consistency throughout the four quarters.

“If I do that, I can really give back to the team.”

The former Claremont Tiger moved to the Lions ahead of the 2020 season with a need for a ‘change of scenery’, but was cruelled by injury.

Ahead of this season, he said he wasn’t given any indication he would feature at League level, but was able to put together his first full pre-season at Subiaco.

“You’ve always got to put your best foot forward and train as hard as possible,” he said.

“Getting a full pre-season under my belt gave me the best chance to be up for League selection.”

“I definitely didn’t think it was going to be in round one.”

The 24-year-old has featured in every game except round four, where he was ruled out due to concussion.

While becoming a solid member of Subiaco’s back six, he’s shown he is more than capable up forward with two long range goals this season.

However, it’s not a role Stergiou was originally accustomed to playing, having played on the wing since coming over to the Lions.

“The coaches told me about needing some speed off the backline,” he said.

“You probably find a bit more of the football at half back and my foot skills are alright.

“That run off the backline was the reason why I ended up moving back.”

Since coming to the club, Stergiou said he’s loved his time in the maroon and gold, and the club has been great for himself and his football.

“I’ve always looked up to Subiaco, and the way they went about their football,” Stergiou said.

“Everyone who is involved at the club makes you feel very welcomed.

“I haven’t regretted it one bit since coming over.”

As Subiaco aims to make their move up the WAFL ladder, the former Tiger said despite mixed results, there were a lot of positives for the rest of the season.

He said the team is aware of the areas they need to improve on, and will look to implement them starting with Peel Thunder this weekend.

Stergiou said he was grateful for his opportunity in the League side, and will look to continue repaying the faith shown in him.