High hopes as Territory trio enter 2021 Women’s Draft Combine

TERRITORY trio Ashanti Bush, Bella Clarke and Grace Mulvahil have been named to participate in the first intake of the NAB AFL Women’s Draft Combine next month.

The 2021 NAB Women’s Draft Combine will assess the strength and fitness levels of athletes who have been selected to participate ahead of the NAB AFL Women’s Draft later this year.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the women will undertake their testing from the Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre on June 26-27 instead of travelling to Queensland as originally planned.

The combine is the final piece in the NAB Women’s

Rising Star program.

AFLNT talent manager Simon Hargrave was excited for local Territory talent to be a part of the Women’s Draft Combine.

“This is an awesome opportunity for our Territory women to be put on the national stage,” he said.

“It is a real credit to the three girls who have put in the effort to get to where they are.”

All three girls are currently part of the Cazalys NT Thunder Academy and have represented the Allies in the Talent programs.

Buffettes young gun Bush was one of the key players in her side’s run to the 2020-21 WPL grand final and is currently playing with the Hawthorn VFLW squad.

Southern Districts duo Clarke and Mulvahil are also no strangers to standout showings having both played for the 2019-20 WPL premiers.

Clarke was awarded the 2020-21 TIO NTFL Southern Districts best and fairest award, while Mulvahil was named best on ground in the 2019-20 grand final.

“NT representation at the women’s combine is a positive step for the future of women’s football in the Territory,” Hargrave said.

“Seeing these girls be recognised for their efforts gives younger girls something to strive for.”

The combine gives AFLW clubs the opportunity to interview players prior to possible selection at this year’s draft.