Expectations High Despite Depleted 18 Girls SquadTuesday, July 30, 2024 - 3:19 PM

WA has suffered a blow in the lead up to the 2024 Marsh AFL U18 Girls National Championships with star midfielder Claudia Wright ruled out because of a broken leg.

Wright, a National Academy Member, fractured her fibula at the weekend, providing a depth test for the WA squad.

Trent Cooper, Manager Female Talent Programs and Coaching Specialist at the West Australian Football Commission, has declared the group can cover Wright’s absence.

“Injuries are a part of football, and it is disappointing that we have had quite a few,” Cooper said.

“We feel that this is the best prepared squad we have had and the depth of talent in WA means that we should now be aiming to compete strongly with all of the other states.”

WA, to be coached by Beau McDonald, rounded out their preparations with a practice match against the reigning WAFLW Premiers Claremont.

“The players have been returning to the program as their teams have finished their WAFLW season and the Grand Final players have only been back for a short time but are ready to go,” Cooper said.

“We had a good hit out against Claremont’s WAFLW side where we showed some good signs but gave us a few areas that we want to improve.”

On the leadership front, the captaincy duties will be shared.

“The players voted on their preferred leadership group which then went to the staff for ratification,” Cooper revealed.

“We fully endorsed those chosen by the playing group and the leadership group of Holly Britton, Taya Chambers, Molly O’Hehir, Tiani Teakle and Claudia Wright was announced at training last week and they will share the load during the Championships.”

Cooper acknowledges WA has a tough opening match.
 
“Queensland are considered one of the favourites to win the Championships and have already recorded a strong win over Vic Country,” he said.

“But we feel if we can apply pressure for four quarters and limit their marking game then we can play to our strengths and really challenge them.”

WA plays Queensland at Pentanet Stadium in Joondalup on Saturday at 11.30am.

Entry is free.