Why not us?! That’s been the theme for our AFLW team and it fits. Why not indeed?

This week we are heading towards the biggest game in in the history of our AFLW program – a preliminary final against Melbourne at Ikon Park this Saturday.

With all that’s happened at our club in such an eventful year, the transformation of our women’s list between seasons is a story that has gone somewhat under the radar.

Incredibly, we’ve seen the debuts of eight players this year – Vikki Wall, Erika O’Shea, Taylah Gatt, Hannah Bowey, Ella Maurer, Zoe Savarirayan, Charli Granville and Sophia McCarthy.

That we’re looking at a preliminary final berth with all that change speaks volumes about everyone involved with our AFLW program.

Enormous credit goes to coach Darren Crocker, skipper Emma Kearney and the rest of the senior leadership group – Nicole Bresnehan, Jasmine Garner, Ellie Gavalas, Emma King, Ashleigh Riddell and Sarah Wright. 

We’ve been competitive across the home and away season and we’re hitting our strides at the right time of the season. 

But that’s enough congratulations – we’ve still got a preliminary final to win!

Which brings us to you, our members and supporters. 

The support the girls received in enemy territory at Punt Rd last weekend was something to behold. I wish more of you could have been there to experience it but I’m sure the noise came through loud and clear on TVs and mobile devices right across the country.

This Saturday, at 3.10pm AEDT at Ikon Park, we all have a chance to experience something special. 

I urge you all to come along to the ground to cheer on Crock, Kearns and the team as we take on Dees with a grand final berth up for grabs.

We’ve assembled a special group and you get the sense this is only just the beginning. It’s a talented and hungry team and they’ll do us proud on Saturday, no matter what the result.

Look forward to seeing you there.

‘Go Roos!’