Jenna Bruton was considered one of the top prospects in the inaugural AFLW Draft in 2016, but her name was never read out.
That’s because in the lead-up to the ground-breaking night, her world was turned upside-down.
In late 2015 Bruton’s mum, Suzy, was diagnosed with brain cancer and she immediately became her full-time carer.
“I honestly wasn’t sure about nominating for the draft,” she told North Media.
“I didn’t want to commit if I couldn’t manage mum’s treatments and helping her.”
It was a sacrifice, but one Bruton never hesitated to make because for her, family always comes first.
“My family was disappointed that I didn’t nominate, but I’m glad I made that choice, and I don’t regret it,” she explained.
“My family are my priority, and I have a great relationship with both of my parents.
“Mum used to drive me everywhere for sport, while working on the farm pretty much seven days a week.”
Although Bruton’s entry to the top level was delayed, she’s certainly made up for lost time.
A North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos’ club champion and two-time all-Australian squad member, Bruton is a genuine star of the competition and one of the hardest working players in the league. Jenna is a no-nonsense type of player and teammate ... she is always working to get the best out of herself.
Three nights a week, the 25-year-old makes a 91-kilometre trek to Arden Street for training from her home-town, north-west of Melbourne.
“I grew up in a small town called Trentham with my two older brothers, Lewis and Sam, who I also began my footy journey with when I was seven,” Bruton said.
“I played for Trentham until I was too old to play with the boys and then had nowhere else to play after that.
“Eventually, Ballarat started a youth girls league, and I played for Golden Point Football Club for the following three years.”
Bruton joined the St Kilda Sharks in the VFLW and was eventually drafted to the Western Bulldogs in 2017.
Alongside her family, Jenna’s partner and fellow North Melbourne star, Jas Garner, also provides a huge amount of support.
In fact, it was Garner who submitted Jenna’s belated Draft nomination.
The pair live on a 1000-acre potato farm along with two of the most spoilt dogs in the world, Bronson and Honey.
“The three most important things in my life are my family, Jas, Bronson and Honey,” Jenna proudly stated.
“Ever since mum was diagnosed our family has gotten a lot closer, and I certainly don’t ever take anything for granted.
“Both of my parents have always encouraged me to be the best I could be, and I run out every week not taking things for granted, but also to repay them for all they have done.”
