AFLW: Rising Star Zarlie Goldsworthy says it was a ‘no-brainer’ to commit to GWS

AFLW Rising Star Zarlie Goldsworthy is both the future and the present of the Giants, and Goldsworthy says it didn’t take much convincing to commit her future to GWS.

Zarlie Goldsworthy became the first Giant to win the AFLW’s Rising Star award. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

AFLW Rising Star Zarlie Goldsworthy never had a doubt in her mind that she was going to re-sign with the GWS Giants.

The 19-year-old’s capped off her incredible year by being named the game’s best young player at the AFLW Awards on Monday, beating out Swans rival Ally Morphett by just one vote.

It marks the end of an enormous month for the teenager who also took home the Gabrielle Trainor Medal as the Giants’ best and fairest, shortly after signing a new four-year deal to stay in western Sydney.

“There wasn’t much convincing needed,” Goldsworthy said.

“I’m really happy where I am, and it was a no-brainer.”

Goldsworthy was a red-hot favourite to take out the award after playing every game for the Giants this season and kicking 13 goals.

Her crowning glory came against Carlton at Henson Park where her five-goal haul led GWS to just their second victory of the year.

Goldsworthy was far and away the Giants’ best player in 2023. Picture: Phil Hillyard

It made it even more special that she got to share the moment with not only her excited teammates but also her proud father, Shane.

“It was an awesome table, I think we were all excited to get the call-up,” Goldsworthy said. “I met so many people in the AFL world, I’m still pinching myself.

“It’s a huge honour, it hasn’t sunk in yet. And to have all my teammates there, and my dad, it was an amazing night.

“I had to drag him there, it was a bit of a girly event, but I think he enjoyed it.”

Family has always been central to Zarlie’s life, with the teenager making regular trips to Albury throughout the year in between games.

It’s something the Giants have always supported, and she feels the achievement is just as much thanks to the club as it is her family.

“When I’ve been back home, I’ve had some time to sit down and reflect on the year,” she said. “They’ve been my biggest supporters from day one, I don’t think this is a surprise to them at all.

“They’re my little hype girl team and I absolutely love them.

“They’ve sacrificed a lot for me to be where I am, so when I play, it’s about giving back to them. Win, lose or draw, they’ll support me no matter what.

“I was often caught between two minds, but the football club was really good in supporting me, they were pushing me out the door and made sure I was spending time with them.”

The teenager received the award from 2023 men’s recipient, Harry Sheezel. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

While Goldsworthy will spend more time in Albury over the Christmas and New Year period, she’s already chomping at the big to get back on the track in 2024.

And considering the heights she hit this season, she’s already anticipating another big year.

“I’m super excited to start again,” Goldsworthy said.

“I think the negative side of AFLW is we have to wait so long to go back and play footy, the months are too far apart.

“I can’t wait to get back into it with all the girls, I’ve had their support since day one and we’re all like a big family.”

Originally published as AFLW: Rising Star Zarlie Goldsworthy says it was a ‘no-brainer’ to commit to GWS