ONE of a few code swappers in the Darebin Falcons’ VFLW line up, Simone Ruedin does not seem to regret giving up an illustrious basketball career one bit. Having started out hooping, the 30-year-old is now part of the footballing community.

“I pretty much started my sporting career off playing basketball and then I jumped ship to footy,” Ruedin said.

“A lot of my friends were playing at that time… you come down, trainings, games, you know the girls are going to be there and I just fell in love with that side of the game, and I guess the playing side came with it. It’s a super competitive sport and I love being out there with my friends.”

Ruedin had quite an esteemed basketball career, making it all the way to college level with both New Mexico State and Fort Lewis. However, after her college days she was keen for a change, and as such swapped to Aussie rules.

Her footy career began at VFLW level, after she was given the opportunity to train with the Western Bulldogs via her local club, before moving across to Darebin. She had a lot of friends in the Falcons’ setup, including Kate Tyndall, whose status as coach played a big role in swaying Ruedin to transfer.

Another recognisable, if not legendary name in women’s football also helped Ruedin along her journey. Ironically in a game against the Falcons, Debbie Lee found her a home in defence.

“I just sort of fell into it,” Ruedin recalled said. “I’d sort of had a break out game, and Deb Lee put me down back.

“I guess being new to the sport you’re sort of looking down the oval, you sort of see the game and you learn the most in the backline how football works. So she saw that opportunity for me and I just fitted in well in the backline and fell in love with it.

“It’s a weird thing because not many people say they love the backline. It’s not a glorious position but I just love it down there and playing with the girls down there.”

Although she has not ruled out wanting to play at AFLW level, Ruedin’s outlook on her career is a little bit more open than that.

“Everyone has that goal, but I just enjoy playing football and I think whatever comes with that will come. I just want to play my best footy and be a reliable person and team mate, so whatever comes with that we’ll see.”