That Winning Feeling

For WA U18’s player Kaitlyn Srhoj a win last weekend against Allies in Sydney was one of the sweetest victories all year.

Despite lining up for Peel Thunder in the WAFLW season, Srhoj had not experienced a win all season.

“There is no better feeling than a win, especially when you haven’t won all year!” Srhoj said.

“It was a really good feeling to know the hard work our team has put in has been rewarded, and this gives our team the confidence for our next game.”

Now she along with her State team, led by Beau McDonald, are chasing a second AFL National Championships U18s Girls victory on Saturday, this time in Joondalup against Victoria Country.

“This is our last National Championship game, and for most girls the last footy game they will play this year,” Srhoj said.

“This gives our team motivation to give it our best shot and leave the field knowing we did everything we possibly could.”

While the wins are important it’s the off-field efforts where the midfielder is leading by example.

“The way I provide leadership off the field is to get everyone excited to play footy,” she said.

“At this level footy can be very daunting and I know lots of girls, myself included, have performance anxiety.

“By singing, dancing, and having a laugh before the game really switches up that nervous energy and turns it into something exciting!”

Prior to WA’s clash with the Allies, the team watched the Matildas win an epic match over France and took plenty of inspiration which they will use this weekend.

“I have never had so much anxiety watching a game of sport!” Srhoj reminisced.

“It was so intense, and I think from a team perspective it really proves that sport can turn around at any second – it’s not over until the final siren.

“This is something Beau reinforces, to perform for all four quarters and keep a high work ethic, because sport comes down to who really wants it more.”

WA U18s Girls take on Vic Country at Pentanet Stadium at midday on Saturday the game can streamed via AFL.