AS the countdown to Round 1 continues, Melbourne’s AFLW coach Mick Stinear discusses the strengths of his players numbered 12-21.
Check out Stinear’s ‘Part Two’ player update below.
No.12 – Shelley Scott
Forward/Midfielder
“Shelley leads by example. She’s reliable, she’s invested in the team’s success and puts more hours into developing her game than anyone else. Shell and Elise complement each other really well as captains and Shell will play a key role for the team across half-forward and through the midfield.”
No.13 – Katherine Smith
Midfielder/Defender
“Smitty has been very consistent on the track with one minor setback. She has been working on her stoppage craft so she’s ready to have an impact as an inside midfielder and she brings versatility being able to play down back as well. Her game has improved significantly and she’s ready to go.”
No.14 – Lily Mithen
Midfielder
“Lily targeted some specific areas of her game during the VFLW season and she’s a different player now. Her footwork and ball use in contest areas has gone to another level, and her leadership and instruction on-field is brilliant. She brings a great energy to the group and she’s certainly a key part of our team.”
No.15 – Lauren Pearce
Ruck
“Loz is another one who had a really good off-season. She was one of the better players in the VFLW competition and she’s hit the ground running in our program. She’s our key ruck and with her ability to get to contests and her mobility around the ground she’ll be one of the best rucks in the competition.”
No.16 – Aliesha Newman
Forward
“Newy’s understanding of the game has improved significantly. You’ll see more impact and more involvement from her this season. She’s still harnessing her speed, but she’ll be a key part of our forward line in terms of defensive pressure and maximising her opportunities to score.”
No.17 – Ashleigh Guest
Defender/Wing
“Guesty had an injury interrupted start to her AFLW program. She had trouble with her ankle and has only recently been able to train consistently. She was our best defender last year so we’re pretty keen to get her back on track and see her in the team.”
No.18 – Casey Sherriff
Defender
“Casey had a really good VFLW season and hit the program running when she came in here. She’s a good rebound defender, plays with good speed, attacks the game and she’ll form part of our defence.”
No.19 – Ashleigh Woodland
Defender
“Just before the Christmas break she was going really well but unfortunately a minor ankle injury limited her training. But now she’s back and she’s one of our best competitors. She’s fearless down back so she’ll form part of our defence and I look forward to her getting an opportunity at AFLW level.”
No.20 – Claudia Whitfort
Wing
“Claudia’s game has gone to another level off the back of her investment into her development. She has an attention to detail on the little things and always looks for extra education. She’s made the wing her position and continues to grow in that area. She’s good at ground level, has great speed and is growing in confidence by the minute.”
No.21 – Harriet Cordner
Defender
“Harriet’s had an excellent program. Physically and mentally she’s ready to attack the next season. She’s confident out on the ground, she’s a key defender for us and she’s a real leader down back, so she’s ready to go.”
