NORTHERN Knights ruck Isobella Hishongwa-Gibb is a latecomer to Aussie rules compared to many of her peers, but the athletic tall is making up for lost time. In the space of a few years, Hishongwa-Gibb has gone from picking up a ball for the first time, to getting into the Knights program and even running out for Vic Metro as a bottom-ager last season.
Now playing alongside sister Avaa, Hishongwa-Gibb has had plenty of memories not just at the Knights, but across various developmental pathways. She has run out for the All Stars in both matches this year against the Northern Academy, and will be a key feature in Metro’s ruck division at the upcoming national championships.
We spoke to Hishongwa-Gibb at the Coates Talent League Girls Preseason Testing event.
Q: Bella, tell us a bit about your football journey?
IHG: “I started playing in like 2021 during Year 8 which is during Covid. Trained a bit, and then played my first season in Year 8 and then did Knights Futures two years ago and then came back and trained with the 18s and played in the 18s last year.”
Q: Are you expecting more to play in the ruck or some other role this year?
IHG: “Probably more in the ruck this year. I’ve been training in the backline a little bit, but I think ruck will be my main role.”
Q: What strengths do you see in your game?
IHG: “My aerial and ruck craft.”
Q: What about the improvements you’re looking to make?
IHG: “Maybe just ball use under pressure and just going up against stronger girls, using bodywork.”
Q: Which AFL/W club do you support?
IHG: “Carlton.”
Q: Is there any reason for that?
IHG: “Just my parents are big Carlton supporters, and grandparents as well.”
Q: Who’s a player that you look up to or model your game on?
IHG: “Steph Wales, she’s a really good ruck and versatile.”
Q: Who’s had the most individual influence on your career?
IHG: “Probably my parents, my dad, just both of them supporting me.”
Q: What goals do you set for yourself this year?
IHG: “Just playing my best footy and enjoying the year.”
