How Tayla Harris’ new Melbourne teammates reacted to her arrival

AFLW star Tayla Harris has revealed how her new teammates reacted to her arrival, despite a messy, high-profile exit from Carlton.

Tayla Harris made headlines with her high-profile exit from Carlton. Picture: Mark Stewart

AFLW star Tayla Harris says she hasn’t felt judged by her new club after a high profile exit from Carlton.

Harris was traded to Melbourne after reports she was seeking a new deal in the vicinity of $150,000 a season.

“I was certainly nervous to meet everyone on the first training night but I feel very welcomed and loved,’’ Harris, 24, said.

“In the same breath, I knew this was a group of people who have great values and understand... my scenario.

“I would like to think and was assured they weren’t judging.

“Then when I met everyone they asked and I told them the truth and they said, ‘welcome aboard’.

“The change of environment and challenge of meeting a new bunch of teammates is exciting and I’m taking it as a positive.”

Harris, a three-time All-Australian, says she hasn’t even scratched the surface of her potential.

“To be honest I have realised, and you do as a young athlete, up until now I haven’t even been training hard, I’ve just been doing the minimum,’’ she said.

“And purely for the fact I’m getting older and learning more about myself and the sport, I’m able to get the best out of myself and push myself further and harder.

“For example I did a 2km time trial — as much as I hate doing them and I got a minute and a half better than the last time.

“So I’m feeling fitter than ever and definitely more equipped in terms of being educated of what training I should be doing and how my body responds to certain training and I’m at a really good point of my physical development.

“I’m not suggesting Carlton versus Melbourne, just saying change is a good thing. This one was forced and that’s fine.

“In the first instance, I was worried and didn’t know what was happening but now I see after a step back this is a positive for me and it’s something I can really relish and make the most of.”

Harris has also invested more in business, partnering with 9Round to open a new gym in Flemington next year.

A professional boxer, she has put that on the backburner to focus on footy and the early start to the AFLW season.

“It was a great opportunity to get involved at this level with Snap Fitness and 9Round all in one venue and I’ll train there for sure,’’ Harris said.