Dayne Zorko has made a significant impact in the AFL, particularly with the Brisbane Lions, where he’s a key player for the team. Known for his dynamic playing style and leadership qualities, as well as his competitive nature and on-field antics, Dayne’s nickname ‘The Magician’ is attributed to his ability to kick remarkable and unexpected goals.
Dayne’s playful nature comes out in a heartwarming interview with his eight-year-old son Louis, who declares he’s his Dad’s number 1 fan. The pair share insights into their special bond and Louis proudly talks about his Dad’s achievements, what it's like to have a father who’s a sports star, and how much he loves watching him play.
Louis, clearly Dayne's number 1 fan, expresses his love and admiration for his Dad. “We both love each other a lot,” he says simply when asked about their special bond. “And he mostly takes me to home games and away games sometimes too,” Louis adds.
Coaching the future
Louis says, “He’s the coach!” when asked about his Dad’s involvement in his own football journey. Dayne, beaming with pride, confirms he coaches Louis's team, shares valuable lessons, and fosters his son's passion for the sport. Louis shares one of coach Dad's key tips: “Instead of doing snaps, do a drop punt!”
Dayne admits to getting a bit frustrated when coaching Louis's team. “You want your son to be the absolute best he can possibly be. And when you see him mucking around at times, it can get a little bit frustrating because that just sets the rest of the kids off!
“But overall, it's pretty awesome and I’m very fortunate in my job to have some time to coach the kids and share a little bit of knowledge about what I know about the game. I think for the most part they really enjoy that too,” he adds.
These insights reveal how much Dayne cherishes the opportunity to share his knowledge and passion for footy with his son and number 1 fan, and Louis’s teammates.
Special bond through playful fun
The Zorko family clearly lives and breathes footy. Louis, already a devoted Brisbane Lions fan, dreams of following in his Dad's footsteps. “I want to be an AFL player when I grow up," he declares. Dayne, who’s been playing since he was four, understands the dedication and love for the game that his son exhibits.
Beyond footy, Dayne and Louis enjoy a range of activities – some of them together. Louis is a keen cricketer and golfer, while Dayne, a multi-talented sportsman, still loves a friendly game of cricket or soccer.
They also have their special bonding moments, like playful wrestling matches on the couch. “I beat him once,” Louis said with a mischievous grin, keeping the details of his winning move a secret.
He relishes the chance to attend Dayne's games and remembers particularly well the Grand Final where he had the unique opportunity to run out onto the field with his Dad and little sister Giselle.
Dayne, reflecting on these moments, admits, “They're the memories I reckon I'll look back on when I'm retired... being able to do it with your family.” He understands that the sacrifices his family makes, and the unwavering support they provide, are invaluable.
“I love it when my family gets to come, and Louis has obviously been a massive part of that for a lot of my career. It's great to know he is there at the games with my daughter and wife. It's pretty special,” he explains. “I try and point to them when I kick a goal, which is pretty cool.”
When asked what he thinks makes his Dad a star, Louis replies, “He’s very good in all places in AFL.” And what makes him awesome at home? “He helps me with homework and if I’m hurt,” he confirms.
Pride in Dad’s achievements
The interview shows the playful dynamic between father and son. Dayne reveals their shared love for Cristiano Ronaldo's celebration, which Louis often does after he scores a goal. “We do the little Siuu thing,” says Dayne. “I know he loves his soccer as well, so it’s a celebration we share that he does after his goals,” he laughs as Louis demonstrates.
Louis confesses his pride in having an AFL player as a Dad. “It's very cool because he's a famous footy player," he says, highlighting the admiration his friends have for Dayne. But he admits being a little nervous before his Dad’s games. “I don’t want him to play badly or kick badly,” he explains.
Dayne Zorko's story is not just about his accomplishments on the field, but also about the legacy he’s building with his family – in particular, with his son and number 1 fan, Louis. It's a testament to the power of shared passions, unwavering support and the unbreakable bond between a father and his son.
