HAVING come from a basketball and netball background, Sturt Women’s youngster Tahlia Walker has loved the atmosphere that comes with playing footy. Though the teenager has fond memories of those codes, it is what she found by joining Aussie rules that really made her fall in love with her new sport.

“I played basketball and netball many years prior to starting footy,” Walker said. “It was very difficult decision to give up both of those sports, but I’ve loved playing footy so I’m very happy that I made that decision.

“I think the team atmosphere is a lot different to basketball and netball as well. “All the girls are always around each other and just encouraging, so I loved that.”

Walker’s football journey has been quick and rapid, rising from a first year player into the South Australian State Academy.

“I started playing footy last year (2020). I didn’t really have many thoughts of it beforehand. I just had mates say ‘come give footy a go’ so I just went for it,” Walker said. “I started playing at Mount Barker Roos footy club, and then this year I went out to Hahndorf Football Club because I had a few mates there as well. “Then I was always invited out to the Under 16s Sturt Development squad. “I thought that was a pretty great opportunity. “Then from there I got invited into the senior squad.”

After showing some promise through the juniors, Walker was invited into her State Under 18s Academy, an opportunity she will likely never forget.

“That was unreal. It was so unexpected,” Walker said. “Yeah when I got the email and my mum got the email, she started crying. “But it was a great feeling and I’m really excited for it.”

Looking to focus on her left foot kick this year, Walker said she has the combination of speed and strength which makes her a damaging player.

“I have been playing a half-forward position lately,” she said. “Then in the Development squad I got chucked into midfield/ruck-rover. I loved both of them.

“I would say my speed (is a strength), I’m quite zippy. “I think my strength as well and having the ability to be strong and speedy is good.”

Sturt is yet to play finals in the SANFL Women’s competition, but Walker is hoping that will change this year. She believes the continuing to build the bond will be crucial, with captain Maya Rigter also the youngster inspiration.

“Ever since I came to Sturt, she’s always so encouraging,” Walker said. “You make a mistake, she’s always there to help you and give you tips, so it’s been great.

“We (Sturt) just need to unite as one and really push each other forward and help each other out on the field. Especially having heaps of young ones out in the team. “Obviously we’ve got a great leadership group and I’m sure they’ll help everyone out and get each other across the line.”

On a personal level, 2022 looms as a big one for Walker, who is really looking to improve her game and continue to rise up the ranks.

“Hopefully I get the chance to debut for Sturt and I just really want to improve on my skills and being only my second year, I’m not quite there yet but hopefully that will come over time,” she said.