PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS | Emma Juneja (Swans Academy)
SYDNEY Swans Academy winger Emma Juneja is a top-ager with some eye-catching traits from her burst speed, sidestep and positioning that helps her impact games. A member of the AFL Women’s Academy, the talented runner stepped out for the Swans for the first time against Gippsland Power on the weekend, and was one of the standouts for the side.
Juneja returned from representing the AFL Women’s Academy against the Under 23 All-Stars the week before to don the red and white and provide some great run and carry across the ground. Playing at Shepley Oval, Juneja was a key contributor as the Swans ran away 52-point winners over the Power, kicking 7.8 to 0.0 in the second half to secure a 10.11 (71) to 2.7 (19) victory.
The top Swans AFLW Draft prospect for 2024, Juneja got a taste for representative action when she ran out for the Allies last season. Her weapons are her speed and agility, able to sidestep players and turn on a dime. Running forward, Juneja consistently found space and was able to use her overhead marking to advantage, setting up a number of goalscoring opportunities.
In the seventh minute of the second term, Juneja got forward to slot a goal of her own, making no mistake from the set shot. Her work rate earned her 20 disposals, six marks, two tackles and eight inside 50s along with her goal, and she provided some exciting player highlights.