State 18’s Head to South Australia for Championship OpenerFriday, April 8, 2022 - 3:21 PM - by Rachael Osborne

WA’s side to face South Australia in the opening match of the 2022 NAB AFLW U18 National Championships will fly out to Adelaide tomorrow. 

The team, to be Captained by Peel Thunder’s Bella Mann, includes 18 players making their 18’s debut. 

State coach Beau McDonald holds high hopes for the game in Adelaide, which was in doubt earlier this year because of border uncertainty. 

“We’re happy with the side we’ve selected, even though some girls have missed out due to COVID or injury.? 

There’s terrific versatility in our team with some talented tall forwards, speed in the midfield and a backline led by Bella Mann,” McDonald said. 

Preparations for the Championships started in November and players pressed their claims through the first part of the WAFLW season. 

“We’re very excited to get to play this weekend. 

The girls are match fit and we’ve created a theme heading into the opening match of Team First, Compete and Professional. 

Our knowledge of the opposition is limited but we always expect a challenge from South Australia who beat us by a goal in our last encounter,” McDonald said. 

Players not selected are being released to play with their WAFLW clubs this weekend if they are fit and healthy. 

Watch the match at 9am WA time Sunday.