About the Lions

What’s footy?

If you are not familiar with Australian Football, it’s a high energy, fast paced, contact sport, requiring both skills and fitness. It is not rugby or American Football, but many skills and the physicality of those sports can be translated into Australian Football.

Brendan Heussler

PRESIDENT

Brendan “Moose” Heussler started playing footy in 2017. In his first year with the Lions, he won Most Improved player and was voted to join the board as Member at Large. He’s been a key component of the Lions as the primary ruckman as they ascended from Div 3, to Div 2, and eventually won the Div 2 national championship in 2019. As a veteran, four time board member and first time President, his focus is solely on the success of the club - on the field and off. He believes a strong club culture is integral to success and hopes to build on the momentum of a strong 2024 season.

Lukas Golson

VICE PRESIDENT

Originally from South Louisiana, Lukas “Fridge” Golson has played footy for the past 12 years. Somewhat of a journeyman in the USAFL, he started his career at Full Back for the Golden Gate Roos and Los Angeles Dragons but has now spent the last 7 years at Full Forward for the Lions. Serving in his second year on the board, he has assumed the role of Vice President and is always eager to provide guidance and assistance when needed. He is happy to call San Diego home, and is excited for one final crack at winning another National title with the Lions.

Seb Lindner

DIRECTOR, FOOTBALL OPERATIONS

As Director of Football Operations for the San Diego Lions, Seb brings strategic leadership and on-field expertise to the club. An Australian expat with seven years in the United States and four seasons playing on the wing for the Lions, he bridges the gap between traditional Australian Rules Football and the emerging San Diego footy scene. Seb's unique perspective helps the club maintain authentic sporting connections while expanding the sport's local presence.

Paul Fields

DIRECTOR, SPONSORSHIPS

Hailing from Perth, Australia, Paul Fields has played football throughout his life, representing numerous clubs, including Swan Districts in the WAFL. Now serving as Director of Growth, he is dedicated to nurturing new talent and onboarding passionate players to the game of Aussie Rules. In addition to his development efforts, he also manages sponsorships, fostering strong partnerships that support the club’s success both on and off the field.

Dwight Wells

DIRECTOR, GROWTH (RECRUITMENT)

Dwight Wells, originally from the Bay Area, has been in San Diego for the past 10+ years. He first joined the Lions in early 2024. With no prior footy experience he went to Nationals with the team in Austin. Now on the board, he is focused on growing the team and getting as many new members as possible to be able to enjoy the great game that is Aussie Football.

Edward Sharp

SOCIAL DIRECTOR

Edward Sharp (Sharpy) has been a Lion since 2021, having moved to San Diego from Kent, England, in 2018, and currently plays in the midfield. Having grown up playing football (soccer), rugby, cricket, and hockey, Aussie Rules and the Lions have been a great fit. Currently a second year board member and serving as Social Director, Sharpy is keen to foster an incredible club culture based on togetherness, engagement, and enjoyment on and off the field that makes other clubs jealous.

Kenzi Pfeifer

MEMBER AT LARGE

Kenzi Pfeifer, serving as Member at Large and the first female board member for the SD Lions, is eager to establish a women’s side for the club. Originally from Australia, she moved to San Diego just before turning four years old. While she unfortunately doesn’t have an Australian accent—or perhaps does, depending on the perspective—she grew up in the U.S., playing soccer throughout her life. Though familiar with footy through her Aussie family, especially her father and brothers, she only began playing the sport herself in July 2024 after joining the Lions. Her involvement with the team stemmed from a community outreach event hosted by the club in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego, which she attended with her "Little Sister." This event connected her with the team, allowing her to rediscover her roots through the sport. Now, her primary goal is to help build a women’s team for San Diego.

Jeffrey Robinson

SECRETARY

Jeffrey “Puke” Robinson is a SoCal native that began playing footy in 2010. He has played for the Riverside Footy Club, Orange County Bombers (now Giants), and Los Angeles Dragons. Puke joined the Lions in 2022 and has played various roles on the field, but is typically seen on the wing or middle. This is his first year as a Lions board member and he has assumed the role of Secretary. Puke is eager to helping the club grow on and off the field.