Sophie steps up

Increased professionalism and a new diet are some of the challenges ahead for former Horsham basketballer Sophie Alexander after she received an AFLW contract from Collingwood last week.

Alexander played the 2018 season with Collingwood’s VFLW team but will make the step up to women’s football’s highest level in 2019.

She said she was surprised but grateful to earn the call-up from Collingwood after missing out on selection in the 2017 AFLW draft.

Alexander, who played basketball for the Horsham Lady Hornets until 2017, said the transition to top-level football would be challenging.

“It is definitely a step up in intensity,” she said.

“I was lucky enough to play in the VFLW finals with Collingwood this year and one of my coaches said that standard of football is what every game is like in the AFLW. “Everything is a lot faster.” With Collingwood’s preseason training starting next month, Alexander said she would make several lifestyle changes to give her the best chance of succeeding in the AFLW.

“I think one of the biggest things for me will be the professionalism,” she said. “I have to change my lifestyle and diet – I’ve spoken to a dietician and I want to make sure I’m eating the right stuff.

“Then it’s about getting in the gym and getting stronger.”

Several prominent AFL footballers including Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury have come from a basketball background and Alexander said there were skills from her time with the Lady Hornets she could apply to her new career.

“I think having a basketball background really helps with spatial awareness,” she said.

“Obviously the skills are different, but knowing where everyone is around you helps.”