PHOTO CAPTURES THE REAL POWER OF AFLW
THESE are the faces of a young generation inspired by the emergence of Geelong’s AFLW team.
This image of footy-mad sisters Molly (12), Ava (10) and Grace Bilyk (8), and their friend Imogen Hardiman (12), swept across the internet after Geelong’s one-point win over Collingwood last week.
Ava, who is pictured standing on mum Lisa Bilyk’s knees while waving to Georgie Rankin, had the honour of being part of a guard of honour at last week’s match.
She, too, dreams of playing on GMHBA Stadium.
Ava started Auskick aged five and has played competitive footy for three years, firstly holding her own in the under-9s and under-10s against the boys, before joining the under-12 girls team at St Mary’s, which is coached by her dad Dave.
“Ava’s idol is Daisy Pearce and she aspires to be just like her one day,” Lisa said.
“Anyone who knows Ava and knows how passionate she is, knows it’s her dream to also be out there playing AFLW one day.
“Before AFLW we thought we would have to tell Ava she can’t play football any more when she got to a certain age and we knew she would be devastated by that.
“But now she can follow her dream and aim to be at an elite level like the role models out there playing now.”
Molly and Imogen have also played under-12 girls footy for the past two years.
“They both enjoyed football but discovered a real love of the game after they began playing,” Lisa said.
“It bought out a different side of them, a strong determined side that built up their confidence and resilience, such an important trait that girls and women need today.”
Grace’s interest in the sport is also increasing.
“Grace ... has only loved the fact that she gets hot chips and donuts at the footy, but she showed a lot more interest in the game with the women out there playing,” Lisa said.
“The girls love being in a team environment where they can have fun, encourage each other and to get out there and give it their all.
“As a family we love attending quite a few AFL games throughout the year, but we’re thrilled that now football season starts earlier due to AFLW and will attend as many games as possible.”