Multi-Talented Kelly A Tackling MachineWednesday, May 21, 2025 - 8:28 AM

Claremont WAFLW Premiership player Juliet Kelly is a key for the Tigers as they chase back to back flags.

The reigning premiers are coming off a dramatic draw against fellow contenders Subiaco last weekend where Kelly again showed her value.

The 17 year-old had 14 disposals and incredibly laid 17 tackles, following on from the previous week against Perth where she had 23 touches and produced a remarkable 18 tackles.

“Pressure is definitely a huge part of my game,” Kelly said.

“I think pressing up, when necessary off half-back to impact the opposition’s flow of the ball is extremely important.

“If we do not win the ball in stoppages, the tackle pressure to prevent them getting it out to the space and cause another stoppage is critical.

“Even the little things, like chasing after players even if they manage to evade you, to put perceived pressure on is huge.” 

Kelly still believes she has ample room in her game for improvement.

“I would say my first game wasn’t my best, however I took note of what I thought I could have done better in that game and brought more aggression and desire into my later matches,” Kelly said.

“Each week I have been moved around in positions which I have liked as it tests my adaptability and helps me try switch playing specific roles throughout a game.

“I feel I am improving in areas each week, especially my contested work and been doing things on the outside to try improving the little one percenters. 

Kelly’s athletic attributes means she’s also represented Australia in rowing.

“I got into rowing through my school program at Iona, liked the challenge and discipline required, so joined Fremantle Rowing Club,” she said.

“Last year I had the opportunity to trial to represent Australia in the Junior Rowing team.

“I took my chances and after a mentally and physically gruelling week, I got in.

“The World Championships were in Canada and we made the A-final, didn't podium, but was a great experience.

“The downside to this trip was that I had to give up the opportunity to play in the U18 Championships last year.

“The main things that helped me to make this decision was that I was a bottom-ager so had another year in U18’s, and it wasn’t my draft year.  

With talent in two sports Kelly knows a decision is looming.

“I am always trying my best to keep my options open for both of the sports as I love them both in different ways,” Kelly said.

“Now, however, I obviously have to narrow down my focus with the draft coming up but still want to keep rowing for the fitness and community element.

“I started rowing in 2021, so have been balancing both for nearly five years now.

“It has definitely been a struggle at times, but for the most part I think I have been able to juggle them well. 

This year though, footy is a priority for the Tigers midfielder.

“The U18 Championships is very important for me this year,” she said.

“After missing out on the games last year due to the World Champs I can’t wait to get back into the state games.

“This year, I hope to showcase my talent to reach my goal of playing AFLW.

“I think these champs are going to be very important as I will be competing against the other girls in this year's draft trying to prove to the clubs and myself that I deserve to be drafted.” 

Kelly is also intent on helping Claremont claim another WAFLW flag.

“There is always the pressure from the other teams to perform well, however I think the main drive comes from within our squad,” Kelly said.

“Having a candid environment to be honest and push each other, and the ability and resilience to get back on top of our game if we dip in form, is important.

“Everyone definitely has one goal in mind, and after knowing what it took last year, we are focusing on growing each week and continuously building from each game.”