Six WA Players to Watch in AFLW National U18 Champs opener v SA

The AAMI WA Football State 18s Girls get their AFL National Under-18s Championship campaign underway against South Australia at Mineral Resources Park on Saturday afternoon. We take a look at some of the players set to shine in the carnival.

Cara Dziegielewski (West Perth/ruck)

The athletic ruck talent claimed All-Australian selection last year as a bottom-ager in a remarkable feat.

The AFLW National Academy has already built an impressive footy CV, producing some brilliant performances in the ruck at WAFLW level across the past two seasons.

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India Bonadeo (Claremont/forward)

Bonadeo looks set to put a frustrating run with injuries behind her when she features in the AFLW National Under-18s Championship.

The Claremont youngster has a booming left boot, is as competitive as they come and is a regular goal-kicker.

 

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Lexi Strachan (West Perth/midfielder)

Strachan is one of WA’s top draft prospects this year and was named as a co-captain of the State 18s side in a nod to her leadership qualities.

The powerful midfielder is coming off a massive start to the season at WAFLW level, averaging 22 disposals and 4.5 tackles for the Falcons.

Arybella Nelson (West Perth/defender)

Nelson starred in the recent AFLW National Under-16s Championship, winning WA’s MVP award and earning All-Australian selection.

It’s crazy to think the talented defender is still two years away from her draft year.

Mia Carlshausen (Perth/half-back)

The Dalwallinu product is part of the AFLW Academy and is already making her mark at WAFLW level as a rebounding defender who can also play up the ground.

Carlshausen provides plenty of dash from half-back and has excellent foot skills.

Miley Hynes (West Perth/midfielder)

Hynes is the daughter of West Coast premiership player and former Docker David Hynes who qualifies as a father-daughter selection for both clubs next year.

The bottom-aged prospect can play inside midfield or across half forward.

She’s strong overhead, tackles hard and knows where the goals are.