Emma ready to lead

TWO years of top level action with Altona and a wealth of knowledge gained from years of state junior representation makes Emma Hatton an ideal fit to lead Geelong on its maiden Premier League journey.

Hatton (pictured) returned to the Geelong women’s team last year, helping the Sharks to the Vic League 1 premiership which went a long way to earning promotion to the state’s elite competition.

Geelong has lost on-field general Courtney Pearson due to work commitments but, while Hatton knows they are big shoes to fill, she said the team had been “really supportive”.

“The team is looking really positive,’’ Hatton said ahead of tomorrow’s opening round of the season against KBH Brumbies at Stead Park.

“The girls are working really hard and they’re all putting in 100 per cent. We might not have the most skilled team compared to the top teams in Premier League but everyone’s heart is in it and we want to work really hard.”

As with all sports the jump to elite level brings a greater intensity which takes time to adjust to.

“It’s so much faster,’’ Hatton said. “You have ball kids in Premier League so you don’t get a break when the ball’s off. But we’ve adjusted well.

“Our first practice match (against Footscray) we weren’t used to it and we got a bit pumped but the second game — a win over Altona — we adjusted really well.

“We’ve got as really tight-knit group. We all look out for each other and we have a really good culture and everyone’s always happy, which is amazing.’’

The challenge will be to maintain the same vibe when up against the best teams in the state. “It’s not going to be the same story but as long as we stay positive and have fun. It’s a big honour to be up there,’’ Hatton said.