The AFLW Draft is a night where a dream can become reality, with the Nation’s top talent on display, all vying for the opportunity to make it to the highest level.
On Wednesday 29th June, three former MPJFL players earnt selection in the 2022 AFLW Draft, all having standout seasons with the regions NAB League team, the Dandenong Stingrays.
The three players selected in the AFLW Draft were:
Mackenzie Eardley – Pick 6 – Hawthorn
Taylah Gatt – Pick 28 – North Melbourne
Charley Ryan – Pick 38 – Richmond
Taylah Gatt after receiving Best on Ground against the Northern Tasmania Football League (2021 Tasmania Tour)
You can view all the AFLW Draft Selections pick-by-pick here!
All three draftees once called Dallas Brooks Oval home, as proud representatives of the Beleura Junior Football Club. The Beleura Demons are one of the Founding MPJFL clubs and have been a part of the league since its inception in 1970.
There is no doubt that Beleura have been one of our leading clubs within the female space, helping pave the way for what is now a sustainable and competitive competition.
From starring in the Red and Blue for Beleura on a Sunday, these three girls quickly progressed to interleague honors, representing our league as part of the Regional Championships. Once inside the talent pathway, they went from strength to strength, most recently playing off in the NAB League Grand Final, representing our region against the state’s top junior talent.
Over the years, our female development program has continued to build upon the strong foundations that have been laid. We are extremely excited to see what is in store in the seasons to come as we continue to provide great opportunities for our players to develop within the talent pathway system.
Two other former MPJFL players have also been rewarded with opportunities to test their talent at the top level, both recruited by the Sydney Swans for their inaugural AFLW season.
These two players are Jaide Anthony (Mount Martha) and Bridie Kennedy (Dromana).
Jaide and Bridie both begun their footballing journeys within the MPJFL, and have showed great perseverance and determination to reach the AFLW.
Earning a position on an AFLW list is a fantastic achievement and is the result of years of dedication and commitment. We are extremely proud of your efforts thus far and look forward to following your AFLW journey in the years to come.
The AFLW Season kicks off in August, and you can find the fixture HERE!
