CLEVER forward Georgia Patterson showed some promising signs throughout her bottom-age campaign, and the Canberra-based Giants Academy prospect is expecting even bigger things in 2026. Capable to also rolling through the middle, Patterson has some nice footy IQ and defensive pressure, and will look to build on her overall game.
We spoke to Patterson at the recent Giants Academy Preseason Testing Day about her footy journey, game, inspirations and goals for the year ahead.
Q: Georgia, tell us a little bit about our footy journey?
GP: “I started playing footy when I was about 8/9 years-old. I played for Ainslie Tricolours, a great couple of seasons with them since juniors now playing in First Grade with them. It’s been very enjoyable, they’re a very good community. I really liked AFL so I stuck with it so I got rid of all the other sports I was in.”
Q: Who’s had the most individual influence on your career?
GP: “Honestly, I’d probably just say my mates. I got into footy because of a mate who still plays with me. Mum and dad are obviously really good at taking me places. Living out of town, so driving a lot so them just trying to do it for everyone I love really.”
Q: What was the AFL Canberra Grand Final like for you?
GP: “It was amazing. So good. Like first year of playing First Grade at a club level to win it was really crazy, especially at 16. Especially with all the younger girls in my team, it was so incredible to get that win. It was a good game against Belconnen, they always give it to us, so it was good to end up on top.”
Q: What do you see as some of the strengths in your game?
GP: “I like my footy IQ, I feel like I’m pretty good on the field, know where to be and when not to be there. I think tackling, forwardline pressure when I’m there and just getting amongst the ball really.”
Q: What are you looking to improve on at the moment?
GP: “I think speed is something I’m looking at, and just trying to get the ball out quicker. When I get the ball I want to make an impact and find the right position for my team.
Q: What position do you see yourself playing this year?
GP: “I’ve spoken to a few of my coaches this year and I’m getting a few different positions. Mainly the majority one was forward, getting to be amongst it, getting around the ball, crumbing, scoring some cool goals. Then also on the wing, get a go there and see what I can do with getting the ball.”
Q: Which AFLW club do you support, Giants?
GP: “Yeah Giants. I also go for the Swans though, it’s a bit of a battle there. When I’m playing, of course Giants.”
Q: Which player do you look up to or model your game on?
GP: “I like Christian Petracca. He’s a very good player, I just think he’s nice, he knows what he’s doing, and he gets in and gets it done, and off the field he’s a good person as well so I like that.”
Q: What goals do you set for yourself this year?
GP: “I think just do the best I can really, wherever I end up is wherever I’ll end up. I’m going to do the hard work to do what I need to do, and if I get drafted, I get drafted and it will be amazing, but I’m here to do the hard work so whatever I can do, is what I’ll do.”
