Moana & Co raring to go

HALF her teammates will be the new kids on the block, but North Melbourne AFLW star Moana Hope will be just as excited when the club plays its first match in the competition next year.

The former Collingwood forward, who instantly became one of the faces of the women’s league when it began two years ago, has joined the Roos for the 2019 season.

And when the side clashes with Carlton in round one at North Hobart Oval in February, even Hope’s experience at the top level might not contain the butterflies.

The AFLW fixture release provided a double bonanza for the code in the state, with North’s second home match at UTAS Stadium in round three to unfold under lights on Friday against reigning premiers Western Bulldogs.

“I don’t think I have been this excited yet, and I love football and have loved the experience so far,” Hope said.

“I can just imagine what the girls are going through and especially the girls who live here in Tassie, it is going to be an amazing experience.

“I can say I actually feel that excitement even more coming into the season.”

Hope said she expects a groundswell of support for the Round One contest.

“I know everyone down here loves footy, which is why I am so excited.

“I think they will get into it, the atmosphere will be huge and the more that come the more the girls will get up and about.”

DREAM DRAW: SPORT