Standing at 198 cm and weighing 104 kg,[1] Spaanderman is a well built player who can play both ruck and up forward.
He was initially recruited by the Brisbane Lions from East Perth, where he spent much of his time as a forward.
During his time with the Brisbane Lions (2004 and 2005), Spaanderman played three senior games for one goal, 12 disposals, four hit outs and a solitary tackle.
His best game, statistically, was in round 20, 2005 against Sydney, when he racked up six possessions and kicked his first goal.
Spaanderman had a very good season with East Perth, where he matched up well on opponents such as Michael Gardiner and Daniel Bandy.