My football story.
I guess I discovered AFL by accident. I have always played sport, for the last 10 years my life has revolved around training for and playing Ultimate Frisbee. And it was time for a change- try something different, challenge myself, make new friends. So I decided to give AFL a go, as it is reasonably similar to Ultimate. I just looked it up on the internet and started training with my local team.
Straight away I knew I was onto a good thing with the Dockers. Everyone was friendly, helpful and encouraging. Which meant I stuck with it. Playing with a nice group of people is very important to me. I remember my first game I was very nervous and the adrenaline was pumping.
I think I'm pretty fit but I remember huffing and puffing non-stop that game because I was so nervous. Probably because I've never played contact sport before and getting smashed to the ground (while wearing little purple shorts) is a whole new experience for me. Anyway, I made it through the game in one piece.
I kicked a goal in that first game, my only goal for the season so far! It was from less than 10m out, the ball kind of fell into my hands in a marking contest, and I couldn't really miss from there. Was a great feeling and the girls gave me lots of pats on the back. Now I play up the other end of the field so don't get many opportunities to kick goals. The main thing I love about the game is my team, the Dockers. It's an
excellent, fun group on and off the field, they congratulate me when I do something good and give me tips on how to improve the way I play, in a positive, encouraging way. They're also a very fair team and play with a great deal of sportsmanship.
I also enjoy the fitness side of the game, and last but not least I love defending and tackling, and then turning defence into attack.
On how the US Team will go?
I'm not sure about the transition to full-sized fields and 18 players. I think if the US girls have the skills- fitness, kicking, running and marking
it shouldn't be a difficult transition.
Thanks Lisa and good luck playing footy with the Dockers!
Last Modified on 18/07/2009 08:04