Nigel Lappin has joined an impressive group of six retired players inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame in Melbourne on Tuesday night.

The late Maurice Rioli (Richmond, South Fremantle), Paul Bagshaw (Sturt - SANFL), Ben Hart (Adelaide), Verdun Howell (St Kilda), Ray Sorrell (East Fremantle, South Fremantle - WAFL) and Lappin were inducted at the AFL's black-tie event.

In its 20th year, the Hall of Fame recognises those who have made "significant contributions" to the game at any level since 1858.

Among a team of champions, Lappin’s contribution to the Brisbane Lions is often understated.

Lappin grew up in Chiltern, Victoria. He was drafted to the Brisbane Bears in 1993 and became a member of the Brisbane Lions’ inaugural team following the merge with Fitzroy in 1997.

Lappin was part of the Lions’ ‘Fab Four’ alongside midfielders Michael Voss, Jason Akermanis and Simon Black – one of the most well regarded midfield combinations – that proved to be the most successful side in Club history.

The complete team man, Lappin finished his career after 279 senior matches, a three time premiership player (2001, 2002, 2003), 2004 Merrett-Murray Medallist, co-captain (2007-2008) and four time All Australian (2001-2004).

His incredible courage was evident when he carried broken ribs into the 2003 Grand Final. He was promptly taken to hospital after the match to repair a punctured lung.

Nigel Lappin might have avoided the limelight but his football spoke for itself.