NAB League Girls: Lou Painter, Lila Keck star for the Bendigo Pioneers

A 15-year-old Bendigo Pioneers star is taking the NAB League Girls competition by storm with two straight best on ground displays.

Lou Painter is just 15.

But she’s already produced two best on ground displays to start the NAB League Girls season for the Bendigo Pioneers.

In her side’s 50-point win against the Greater Western Victoria Rebels on Saturday, Painter finished with 21 disposals, five tackles and a goal.

And it’s fair to say coach Danny O’Bree is a little excited about her potential would be an understatement.

O’Bree said she sky was the limit for the young teenager.

“To have two best on ground performances in two games as a 15-year-old is outstanding,” he said.

“She’s not anywhere near her ceiling which we think is one of the most exciting parts of her development because we want to see where she can take her game from here.

“Even what she has learnt from week one to week two is noticeable. Having such a player who wants to learn makes your job much easier as a coach.”

The Bendigo Pioneers enjoyed a big win against the GWV Rebels. Photo: Facebook.

Bendigo’s win was dominated by its young guns with the crafty Lila Keck also grabbing the headlines.

The 16-year-old finished with 23 disposals, 10 tackles and two goals in a standout display.

“She’s a workhorse who loves the competition,” O’Bree said.

“It wasn’t just Lila’s stats which stood out to our coaching staff it was the impact she had when the ball was there to be won.

“I thought her and Lou really led the way for our team which speaks highly of their maturity.”

The more experienced duo of Drew Ryan and Octavia Di Donato were also impressive throughout the afternoon.

Ryan continued to “pop up at the right time” finishing with 21 disposals.

Meanwhile Di Donato took another step in her recovery from a “hampered pre-season” with 19 touches.

O’Bree said the coaches were still working to build her fitness but was impressed with her improved performance compared to round.

The Pioneers now turn their attention to a clash with the red hot Dandenong Stingrays at RAMS Arena in Craigeburn on Sunday.

“I’m excited to compete a really high quality opposition,” O’Bree said.

“Any chance you have to play against the best is a great way to continue your development.”

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