SANDRINGHAM Dragons top-ager Isabel Bacon is a rising AFLW Draft prospect and among the most athletic players in the pool. We spoke to the first-year talent at the recent AFLW Draft Combine event to find out her thoughts on her 2023 season, and get to know the midfielder/defender a little bit more.
Q: Isabel, how did you rate your 2023 season?
IB: It’s been a great year. First of many, first time in the Coates Talent League program, so it was great to play with the Sandy girls and play with Vic Metro.
What is your sporting background?
IB: I played basketball from Year 6 to last year, and I’ve done athletics and cross country and netball, so a pretty sporty background.
What made you transition to footy?
IB: Probably from a young age, the friends and trying a new sport, but now the physicality and taking my game to the next step.
What do you consider to be your strengths and improvements?
IB: My strengths would be speed and physicality and attack on ball. My weaknesses would be decision making and kicking.
How was it this year being able to play for Vic Metro?
IB: It was just a pinching moment, just a dream come true. Getting to know other girls and getting to play with other players was just a great experience for me.
How did it compare to where you wanted it to be from the start of the year?
IB: At the start of the year I had no clue I’d end up in this position. I didn’t think I was going to be able to play for Vic Metro. It’s such a great opportunity and I’m so happy.
Did you watch much footy growing up?
IB: Watched a lot. Pretty much all my weekend is footy, especially now women’s a lot more than the men’s just trying to get to every single game.
Which AFL/W team do you support?
IB: I support the Sydney Swans.
Which players do you look up to or mould you game on?
IB: Definitely Monique Conti, Jas Fleming and Soph Hurley.
Where do you feel you play your best footy?
IB: I think mid but also rotating to half-back.
What role have you played the most in this year?
IB: My first game was down at half-back, that was my first time ever playing that position, but most of my game is in mid.
Were you looking to nominate state or national?
IB: I think I’m going to nominate state.
