Tara Murray
Northern Knights co-captain Jess Fitzgerald continued to prepare as if she was playing football each week throughout the COVID-19 restrictions.
With the NAB League Girls season cancelled after three rounds, Fitzgerald’s top age year at the Knights came to an end prematurely.
Best afield in last year’s NAB League grand final win, Fitzgerald focused on continuing to work hard, with her eyes on a spot on an AFLW list later this year.
“It has been challenging and I missed it heaps,” she said of not playing football. “I found a fair few hobbies, which has been good.
“I like structure, so I’ve kind of worked my weeks as if I was still playing. I’m doing a few running sessions a week, a few strength sessions as I’ve got a few weights from my school.
“I’ve just been using some of that and going for kicks with dad and my coach from Knights and the talent manager as well.”
The midfielder was happy with her three games she got in, with the side going through undefeated.
Having been part of the Knights for the past three years, Fitzgerald said it was sad to see her time at the club come to an end the way it did.
She said it had been special to be co-captain alongside Ellie McKenzie.
“It felt pretty good in those first three games, the team looked like it was off to a good start, so it was a bit disappointing it got cancelled,” she said.
“I wasn’t allowing the draft year to get to me. I was just trying to enjoy it, as I knew I wouldn’t be playing for the Knights next year.
“I was shattered when I found out [the season was cancelled] and I did get a little bit emotional, which I wasn’t expecting.
“I just had a look back at my time there and it has been absolutely amazing and I’m just grateful for the experience.”
Fitzgerald said the friendships forged would be what she treasured most from her time at the Knights.
She said the club had set the bar with a very strong culture, something she will compare other clubs too.
“The coaches and the girls are just amazing, it’s like a family down there.”
Fitzgerald, who was part of the successful Vic Metro side last year at the national championships, has been selected for the state combine but it’s still uncertain whether the Victorian girls will get the chance to test due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Fitzgerald said she was preparing as if they are going to test. Throughout the season she has been in contact with fellow Knights and players from other clubs in the same situation and they have shared tips and support.
In the lead-up to the AFLW draft on October 6, Fitzgerald has started talking to AFLW clubs that are potentially interested in drafting her.
Having focused on basketball growing up, Fitzgerald said the dream and goal was now to play AFLW.
“It doesn’t feel real to be honest,” she said. “I’m not nervous at the moment, I’m just excited and I want it to be here already.
“I’ve had a few interviews which have been good, it’s been an interesting experience.
“They sort of just asked you about your strengths and weaknesses and what sets you apart from others and what you bring to the club potentially, and just a little about yourself so they get to know your character.”
With five Knights players drafted last year, Fitzgerald said she was touching base with a few of them, including number one draft pick Gabby Newton on what to expect during the next few weeks.
Fitzgerald has selected to stay in Melbourne, which means only Melbourne-based teams can select her.
The AFLW draft will be held online.
