The North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos have secured their first father-daughter pick in Amy Smith.
Daughter of Shaun Smith, who played 47 games for North and another 67 for Melbourne between 1987 – 1999, and sister of Melbourne player Joel, Smith was in a unique situation with father-daughter eligibility to both clubs.
The 21-year-old was a talented basketballer in the Big V Competition for a number of years, before joining Aberfeldie Football Club in the Eastern District Football League (EDFL) for the 2019 season.
Smith played predominantly as a midfielder in the Premiership winning side, and went on to be named in the EDFL Team of the Year. She then joined Williamstown’s VFLW program in 2020 where she completed a pre-season before COVID-19 restrictions were enforced.
“The Smith family have a proud footballing history, and we are delighted to be able to secure our first player through the Father-Daughter system,” North AFLW list & football performance manager, Rhys Harwood said.
“Amy’s athleticism as well as her dedication to develop her game since crossing from basketball has seen her progress quickly since taking up football prior to the 2019 season.
“Her development has been really impressive and we believe she has great scope to go to the next level in our program.
“Amy is a great athlete, at 170cm, and has a great engine and turn of speed. We think she will be well suited to roles both through the back half of the ground, and the midfield.”
North AFLW coach Darren Crocker said it was a special moment to draft Smith given her connection to the Kangaroos.
“It’s so exciting to be welcoming our first ever father/daughter into our club, but extra special for myself having played with her father, Shaun,” Crocker said.
“Both Shaun & Lorraine [Amy’s parents] should be extremely proud of Amy’s rapid development, giving her the opportunity to be drafted into the AFLW.
“We’re really confident that the program and environment at North will allow Amy to continue her development and realise her full potential.”
North will go into the AFLW Draft on October 6 with 4 selections, including Pick 13.
