ALL-ROUND draft prospect Lacey Nihill showed plenty in her bottom-age season with Bendigo Pioneers to progress through to the Vic Country summer hub and prepare herself for a big 2026. The midfielder has spent time across the ground but anticipates a wing role is where she will land for the Pios.

We spoke to Nihill at the Talent League Girls Preseason Testing Day over the weekend and found out more about her football journey, game, inspirations and goals for the year ahead.

Q: Lacey, tell us a bit about your footy journey?

LN: “My footy journey started quite early. I played Auskick with my twin brother and then went across to soccer because you weren’t allowed to tackle in footy, and when you were allowed to tackle I came across back to footy and played with the boys at St Thereses Sharks, and when I aged out from the boys I played with the girls at Sandhurst.”

Q: What’s it been like rising from local level to play at the Pios?

LN: “I think at first it was a bit of a shock. I think I started when I was 14 playing my first Under 18s game. It was a bit of a shock at the start, but everyone made it really easy and I’ve loved it.”

Q: What position do you anticipate you’ll play this year?

LN: “I enjoy playing on-ball definitely, and also on the wing. I think the wing’s probably where I’ll find myself most this year.”

Q: Who’s had the most individual influence on your career?

LN: “Definitely my mum. She’s been my rock ever since I’ve picked up a footy and supports me no matter what.”

Q: What do you see as some of the strengths in your game?

LN: “I think my biggest strengths would be my run and carry and my fending off.”

Q: What about your improvements?

LN: “I think I definitely need to work on my kicking, and my kicking on the run as well.”

Q: Is there a player you look up to at the top level?

LN: “I reckon Tyla Hanks. She does all the one per cent things really well and is underrated.”

Q: Which AFLW club do you support?

LN: “Melbourne Demons.”

Q: Is that family related or just chosen?

LN: “Yeah my family all go for Melbourne, so I just jumped on the bandwagon.”

Q: What goals do you set for yourself this year?

LN: “Just to play really consistent footy and then hopefully get drafted by the end of it.”