AFLW draft: Romsey junior Madison Prespakis heads to Carlton
ONE of Madison Prespakis’ first coaches has given an insight into the midfielder’s prodigious talent after the rising star joined Carlton in the AFL Women’s draft.
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ALICIA Eva recognised Madison Prespakis’ talent instantly.
Several years before the AFL Women’s competition launched, 13-year-old Prespakis attended a Calder Cannons training session and was put through her paces by Eva.
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“She was 13 and four foot nothing,” Eva, who plays for GWS Giants, said.
“But I remember noticing she had elite hands.
“Even as a tiny 13-year-old. I was deliberately spearing the footy in harder and harder to see how she was going and she managed it just fine.
“Just thinking back on what she was like then and to see her get drafted to Carlton at number three is pretty amazing.”
Prespakis, who played junior football with Romsey and Sunbury youth girls, was the first player chosen from the Vic Metro region in Tuesday’s draft.
The tough on-baller was snapped up by Carlton with pick no. 3, beaming with pride after she was presented with her navy blue jumper by coach Daniel Harford.
“It has been a long time coming,” Prespakis said.
“I thought that my career was going to be cut short with the boys and I didn’t think I would get this opportunity.
Special moment for @AliciaEva2 who was in Melbourne to watch one of the @CalderCannonsFC team she coached join her in the AFLW at today's #AFLWDraft - Madison Prespakis @HarfSerious pic.twitter.com/zTNjxap751
— Tim Michell (@tim_michell) October 23, 2018
“Now it has come ahead I really jumped at it with both hands and worked as hard as I could. “The dream has come true and it’s not fake. It actually happens. For me today it has come true and I am just so happy.”
Harford said the Blues “couldn’t be happier” to secure the ball magnet, who excelled with Vic Metro at the Under-18 national carnival and for Melbourne Uni in VFL Women’s.
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“Not only is she a proven ball-winner, but she has a super footy IQ and makes good decisions with ball in hand,” he said.
Eva, who coached Calder Cannons to the inaugural TAC Cup Girls premiership, praised Prespakis’ dedication and said she was pleased the midfielder’s diligence had been rewarded.
“When she came to the Cannons, she was already exceptionally skilful,” she said.
“But there was work that needed to be done around footy IQ, as there is with all kids when they come into a development program. Aerobically as well.
“She has just been one of those kids that has probably been one of the hardest working on the track and that’s not to say she hasn’t hit some roadblocks along the way.
“She has also really developed her leadership on and off the field.
“To see her come into the program as a tiny, exceptionally-skilled kid and come out as a leader and still an exceptionally-skilful player, just a well-rounded athlete, is great to see.”
Prespakis, from Sunbury, has grown up as a passionate Essendon supporter.
The 17-year-old was quick to declare she felt at home in a Carlton jumper and would be eyeing a Round 1 debut in her debut AFLW debut campaign.
“For my family, it would mean everything to them to see me achieve the dream I have always really wanted to since I was a little girl,” she said.
“I know my dad would be so proud of me. He’s been there from the start until now.”
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