By Hayley Wildes
“We’ve talked to the girls, ever since the pre-season camp, about character.”
There’s something to be said about the way the Gippsland Power TAC Cup Girls are going about their business in season 2018.
After going through the five-game 2017 season winless, coach Scott Armour has focused on building character and a unified group.
He continued;
“We don’t want to be worried about what other people are saying about us, we don’t want to be worried about our reputation, we just worry about our character because that will determine what other people think of us.”
It’s fair to say that people are starting to take notice of the girls from Gippsland. Their character is unquestioned and the wins are coming.
After suffering an opening round loss to the Oakleigh Chargers, the Power have not lost a game since – notching up three wins and a tense draw with the Murray Bushrangers.
“Once they got that first win against the Western Jets in round two, the confidence of the group just went up. It was a group that hadn’t had a win and they’ve just taken off since.” Armour said.
That win against the Western Jets was the clubs maiden victory in TAC Cup Girls football – a major milestone in the clubs proud history.
“We let the girls enjoy the moment, because it had been a long time coming for some of the older girls – it was a really special moment for the club.”
The improvement within the group has been noticeable and with that comes confidence. Confidence in their own ability and believing they can have an impact at TAC Cup level.
“We’ve got players who really didn’t play football last year, so with each game they’re getting better and they’re having more of an impact which is great.” Armour said.
That was never more evident than on Sunday when the girls put in an inspired effort against the Bendigo Pioneers.
“We’re starting to get some self-belief in the group. On Sunday, we a team that was at full strength, and we didn’t have Tyla Hanks – who is an AFL Academy Level Two player – and the girls all stood up.” Armour said.
“They wanted to do it for Tyla and also wanted to show that we are a club that can win without Tyla Hanks.”
Hanks is on the radar of AFLW clubs and whilst her ability to play the game is tantalising, Armour highlights the person she is as being most impressive.
“She is obviously a quality player and that’s been identified by lots of people, but more than that, we put her as Captain because she’s a quality person and a great leader.” Armour said.
“When Tyla is playing, she just brings the best out of others and I think that’s a great trait for someone to have. I think she’s a special player for women’s football in the future.”
With four games remaining, more wins are on offer and further opportunities for that character to shine through.
