Setback gives Ellie bigger motivation
A “DISHEARTENING” injury blow has robbed Ellie Hampson of the chance to take part in the Gold Coast Suns’ first AFLW clash.
But the Townsville product is far from deterred, rather she is using the setback as the catalyst for an even bigger introduction to the top level.
The 18-year-old suffered ligament injuries and bone bruising to her left ankle at a training session last week, which is set to rule her out for four to six weeks.
Round one takes place on her birthday, exactly one year on from when she was first selected in the inaugural Suns’ squad.
When conversations about the team’s match against the GWS Giants started, Hampson said she was hit with a wave of emotions.
But she said the support of her teammates has made the obstacle easier to navigate. The culture established in the group, she said, made her feel like a family member and gave her extra motivation to get herself fit for the team.
“It was pretty hard to take in, but because of the culture of the girls and getting around me I didn’t struggle too badly,” Hampson said.
“One of the girls asked me if I was upset … and I was like ‘no, surprisingly I’m not’, I’m just really excited to see the girls run out.
“It has changed my attitude to be super positive. It’s a bad thing to happen but we’re getting the best out of it.”
Treatment has been going well for the former All Australian halfback. In the next week she hopes to be back on the field starting to test the ankle’s mobility and ability to change direction.
At first, Hampson had fears for her season given she had previously injured the same ankle. However, after being given her prognosis she is now hopeful she can take the field in round five, when the Suns take on the Geelong Cats in Mackay.
The talented prospect said the opportunity to take the field with her Townsvillebased friends and family in attendance would be a “tremendous” occasion.
She said the challenges she had had to overcome this early in her career would make a potential North Queensland debut sweeter.
“I have had a different ride than the other girls. Having to step back has really helped, not motivate me, but put in perspective how hard you and others have to work,” Hampson said.
“I’m not going to say I’ve worked harder than the person next to me, but my journey to my debut will be different to other peoples.
“I know that in my journey I’ve got the best out of my pre-season and left nothing behind.”