Sixteen-year-old Tarni Evans from Tathra took another step in realising her sporting dream recently when she spent a week in Sydney training with the Giants as part of the 2019 NAB AFL Women’s Academy.
Tarni, who plays senior footy with the Queanbeyan Tigers in the Canberra AFL Women’s Premier Division and has represented the Under 16’s Rams against Vic Country, has been selected to be part of the Level One program in the 2019 NAB AFL Women’s Academy squads.
Academy members receive a NAB AFL Women’s Academy scholarship that provides high performance camps and personal development opportunities over a 12-month period.
Tarni is also a scholarship recipient in the South East Sports Academy AFL Female Athlete Development Program where she receives coaching, training, competition and support services to improve her development.
During her time with the Giants, Tarni, whose favourite position is half-forward, learnt what it takes to be a professional AFL player.
“Coming up to Sydney and training with the Giants was a really good opportunity,” Tarni said.
“I learnt heaps and received some really good feedback on what I can improve on.”
Giants AFLW Vice Captain, Alicia Eva said it was an opportunity for the Academy players to train with the club and get access to top level coaches and players.
“We really encourage the girls to speak to all of the coaches and ask lots of questions while they are with us,” Alicia said.
“Tarni has been super. What really stands out is her marking ability and long left-foot kick.
“The Academy is great because it gives the girls a chance to experience a professional footy environment and also and fast-track their development.”
Forty-eight players from across the country have been named in the Academy, including three from the AFL NSW/ACT region. For further information visit https://www.sesa.net.au/afl/
