She's only been playing the sport for two years, but already Anna MacPherson is making a name for herself in the Aussie rules community.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Orange 18-year-old was recently selected in the GWS Giants Academy U19 squad for 2021 after a gruelling few trials.
"We rocked up and it was treated like a proper training session," she said.
"The coaches watched us and put us through all the skills and endurance stuff just how they would run a normal session.
"To be honest I didn't think I was going to make the next level. I think what got me through was my running ability."
In partnership with AFL NSW/ACT, the GIANTS Academy aims to identify, nurture and develop elite athletes in NSW and the ACT.
The Academy offers players individual skill development programs, to mould and better the AFL talent pathway within the club's zone
Anna's selection means that for the next 12 months, she will train alongside some of the best young talent from across the state. Not bad for someone who hadn't played the sport until 2019.
"My uncle has always been a fanatic and my dad played so I thought I'd try it out," she said.
"I was never much of a team sport person, but I'm 6ft tall so that helps a bit.
"In 2019 I played for the Orange Tigers and Central West side and I've had real good opportunities through the Western Academy. But I didn't actually play last year because I was doing my HSC."
The female academy at the Giants is still in its infancy, having only launched in November last year.
Giants head of academies, Jason Saddington, said this expanded program will continue to create opportunities for female athletes.
"This is a significant development for the Giants with a clear pathway established for both male and female athletes from grassroots through to the elite level," Saddington said.
"The Giants are proud to represent a wide and diverse region and the expansion of our Academy will allow us to continue to grow the game in these communities.
"Our AFLW players are wonderful role models for the next generation and this Academy will only strengthen the connection to those who aspire to one day play at the top level."
And while MacPherson certainly wouldn't turn down a shot at playing in the AFLW one day, that is far from her focus at the moment.
"In the meantime I'm just focusing on my skills and making the most out of the professional coaches and physios," she said.
"I'm also looking forward to meeting new people.
"I've already made new friends from the trials so hopefully everything goes well going forward."
She isn't the only Orange product who made the cut either. Matthew Brown made it through to the next phase for the U17s.
The Central Western Daily relies on your support to keep doing what we do. If you're not already a subscriber, please consider coming on board. For as little as $3 a week for full digital access, a subscription represents great value.
HAVE YOUR SAY
- Send us a letter to the editor using the form below