Alyssa Bannan says challenge of cancelled season has been a positive
Footy season cancelled, Year 12 exam stress and training alone, Northern Knights’ AFLW prospect Alyssa Bannan believes the challenges of 2020 have helped her improve on and off the field.
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The NAB League season cancelled, home schooling and the stress of Year 12, 2020 has certainly been a challenge.
However, Northern Knights’ AFLW prospect Alyssa Bannan believes it’s helped her become a more rounded person on and off the field.
Melbourne’s lockdown meant this season’s draft combine was held online, with players asked to submit results and hold club interviews digitally.
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Bannan, tipped to be snapped up inside the top 10 in Tuesday’s AFLW Draft, felt the challenge drove her to succeed.
“It was a bit disappointing to have the season end so quickly but the break has given me time to work on individual aspects of my game – strength and conditioning and my mental health,” she said.
“It being my last year of school has increased the stress but being able to take the time to focus on myself and concentrate on work-life balance has been really good.
“(The combine) was interesting, not being able to compete against other girls, but it helped me find a motivation within myself that would usually come from competing against others.
“Being able to find the determination to do well competing against myself and the clock has been a positive.”
On the field, the South Morang junior has certainly impressed.
As a 17-year-old, Bannan was a key part of the Knights’ maiden NAB League Girls premiership and made two appearances for Vic Metro at the Under-18 National Championships.
She started 2020 on fire, averaging 14 disposals, six marks and three tackles in the opening three games and kicked nine goals.
However, Bannan isn’t getting ahead of herself.
“It’s important to stay grounded and not let other peoples opinions on whether I’m going to be a high draft pick or not get in my head,” she said.
“If I do get in the top 10 or as high as people think, it’s going to be a terrific achievement but at the end of the day the goal is just to be drafted.
“I definitely walked off the ground having given everything I had this season.
“I knew this was my last season so every game had to be my best game and I’m proud of how I played.”
A Carlton supporter, growing up the Blues could come calling if the St Helena Secondary College student is still available at pick No.12.
“Being a Blues supporter, playing for them was one of my dreams,” Bannan said.
“But I think getting to know the clubs and what they’re after I’d be happy to get picked up any club because they all seem amazing.”