I am always excited to speak with students and find out more about their successes both in and outside of school. Recently, I caught up with Year 9 students Kyeshia, Myler and Milla who have taken their love of footy to the next level:

NNH Students Shine in AFLW Talent Pathways Selection

Football holds a special place in the heart of New Norfolk, uniting the community through passion, dedication, and a shared love for the game. At New Norfolk High School, this spirit runs deep and this year, we are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of three outstanding students who have been accepted into the AFLW Talent Pathways program—a prestigious opportunity that paves the way for female footballers to reach elite levels in the sport.

Year 9 students Kyeshia, Myler and Milla shared their experiences and aspirations, giving insight into their football journeys.

Interview with Myler:
What has been the highlight of training in the Devils program? "It’s next-level training where you learn new tactics beyond your base level."

What is the most important thing you’ve learned? "You must know how to handle the hard ball and develop high-quality skills."

Who has been the biggest influence on your football journey? "My coach Bradley Chaplin, my dad, and my other coach Colin Garland."

What advice do you have for young girls who want to start playing footy? "It’s not easy to start, but everyone can improve their skills. At the end of the day, no one is perfect at their sport."

What is your football goal for the future? "To make the AFLW and have my family look up to me as a role model—but most importantly, to have fun."

Interview with Milla:
What has been the highlight of training in the Devils program? "Confidence."

What is the most important thing you’ve learned? "Losing isn’t always a bad thing—you can gain something from failure."

Who has been the biggest influence on your football journey? "Joel Selwood, my brother Tyler, and my dad."

What advice do you have for young girls who want to start playing footy? "Don’t give up, no matter how hard it gets. There’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, so keep your head up."

What is your football goal for the future? "To make the AFLW and inspire younger kids looking to play AFL or AFLW. I want them to look up to me as a role model and see kids, teenagers, and adults wearing my number on their guernsey."

Their hard work, determination, and love for the game have led them to this exciting milestone, and we look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in the sport. Congratulations to these incredible students—NNH is proud to support and celebrate your journey in football!

Want to know more about Football in the community? Or to sign up for the AFL 9’s at school? Speak with your HPE teachers.