When the final siren blew to mark the end of the Hay Lions grand final match, the team, the club and the town celebrated the Lions triumphant win.

But for one player, winning the flag meant just a little bit more.

Justin Ellis started playing AFL footy when he was just 14 years old, and despite now living in Swan Hill, he returned to the Lions to play out his final year with his home town club.

For Justin it was an easy decision.

“It was around finishing my senior footy career at the place where it all started,” he told The Riverine Grazier.

Although he did say he doesn’t want to use the term ‘retired.’

“There’s always an opportunity to play a game or two, but I’m officially not a full-time footballer now.”

After leaving Hay, Justin had runs with Lavington and Tyntynder, as well as a short stint at Sea Lake, playing alongside younger brother Gardean.

The Lions had campaigned for several years for the talented player to give a season to Hay.

“Mick Cattanach and George Auldist had been in contact for about four years, with the idea of me returning home.

“I’m very thankful I could be a part of a senior f lag, (under coaches) Jase Aylett and Jimmy Moran.”

Playing in the centre half forward position, Justin said the success of the 2025 team was due to the calibre of very good footballers around him. Justin said it was the perfect end to his own footy career, to play with Hay, in the final year of the Golden Rivers competition, before it was disbanded.

“It was very fitting to finish that way,” he said.

“It was my first and only premiership, and I am very grateful for the persistent conversations from Mick (Cattanach), George (Auldist) Jase (Aylett) and Jimmy (Moran) over that four year period.

“It all paid off, and I can’t wait for the 10 year reunion.” Justin will now concentrate on the next generation of Ellis’ to make their own mark in the AFL code. Justin and wife Monica have two sons; eight year-old Myles and Ruben who is six, and both play for local club Tyntynder.

“My focus is now on supporting them and helping out with the club,” he said. “They have similar values to Hay.

"They are all there for the same reason, and have a strong emphasis on junior development.”

Hay Lions will move into the Central Murray League in season 2026, the home of Tyntynder.

“The only time I will now find it hard will be when they play Hay,” he laughed.

“But I am excited for the Lions to return to a stronger league, and being competitive.”