A GROUP of 15 Riverland girls were given a glimpse into a potential pathway into SANFL-level football via a Come and Try Day in Berri on Sunday.
The event was hosted by the West Adelaide Football Club and featured 35 of The Bloods’ 50 senior women’s squad members, including Riverland trio Ashlea James, Connie Doupis and Georgie Pater.
The initiative was part of a three-day Riverland camp featuring training sessions and team-building exercises, plus Sunday’s Come and Try session, where the West Adelaide players helped put the Riverland newcomers through their paces in scorching January heat.
“The girls had a pretty busy weekend, but they were raring to go for this camp,” said Hayden Ward, West Adelaide’s female programs manager.
“They gave us a hand with the junior footy clinic and to get about 15 or so at that was step up from last year, I think.
“Obviously the girls were really excited to get involved and they want to push the junior footy in the Riverland this year as well.”
Mr Ward said Riverland session came about following an approach from SANFL game development manager Nick Dillon.
“It was great that Nick reached out to us,” Mr Ward said.
“It was a great weekend.”
Mr Ward was optimistic the young Riverland trio could all make an impact when the 2021 SANFLW season starts on February 27, particularly James, who hails from Renmark.
“Ashlea was inducted to our leadership squad on Saturday night, so the girls voted her in,” he said.
“That’s a big moment for her. She had a great season last year.”
He was also full of praise for fellow Renmark product Pater and Barmera’s Doupis.
“Georgie just finished year 12 and she’s been up and down every week, driving three hours just to get to training,” he said.
“She’s definitely in the mix for games.
“And Connie is a 17-year-old who played every game last year as well.
“She was obviously involved with the Port Adelaide Football Club Academy…”