NAB League Girls: Octavia Di Donato among Bendigo Pioneers to watch

Bendigo Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree has declared the club has “found some rippers” just days out from the start of the NAB League Girls season.

“We’ve found some rippers”.

Those are the words used to describe the Bendigo Pioneers’ 2022 NAB League Girls squad by coach Danny O’Bree.

Headlined by AFLW Academy squad member Octavia Di Donato, O’Bree has a new playing list at his disposal as the Pioneers look to move up the ladder in 2021 after finishing 12th last year.

Di Donato will be full of confidence heading into the new season after a breakout year which saw her play across all three parts of the ground.

She eventually found a place in the midfield averaging 15.4 disposals and kicking three goals for the season.

O’Bree, who has worked alongside the 17-year-old for the past several years, said her commitment to getting the best out of herself had put her in this position.

“Her progression has been significant and it’s because Octavia has done everything asked of her,” he said.

“She’s put in the extra work as well. Being in the Academy is going to teach her a lot about what it takes to take the next step to be an AFLW footballer and I think it’s an environment she will be able to thrive in.”

Supplied Editorial Bendigo Pioneers at the NAB League Girls testing day in December. Photo: Facebook.

Di Donato is also part of the Under 19 Vic Country hub where she was selected alongside Tegan Williams, who is also draft eligible.

Williams, who is also a talented netballer, has “plenty of upside” heading into her draft year according to O’Bree.

“Tegan showed us her strengths as a defender last year but I’d like to see her play some more games up forward this season,” he said.

“There’s a lot of versatility about her game and that’s why I think she can have an impact going forward for us.

“She is learning to balance her week a lot better which will help her the longer the season goes on.”

O’Bree also spoke highly of underage players Bryde O’Rourke and Lila Keck, who are also part of the Vic Country hub.

“Both girls can really enjoy being part of our program this year without thinking too much about getting drafted,” he said.

“They’re both very hard workers and we’re looking to see how they develop this year.”

The Pioneers will get their first test on Saturday when they take on Murray Bushrangers at Yarrawonga.

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