AN ATHLETIC prospect who can play inside, outside or off half-back, Eastern Ranges top-ager Jordyn Allen is an eye-catching talent. Capable of feats not too dissimilar to her Collingwood namesake, the Brisbane supporter is a member of the National Academy and is coming off donning the Australian jumper on the weekend.

We spoke to Allen at the Coates Talent League Preseason Testing Day about her football journey, what role she sees herself playing this year, and how working under past leaders has shaped the player she is today.

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

JA: “I started when I was young, probably about seven or eight. Played in the boys and then I moved to the girls. I’ve just played there at Heathmont and then I got into Ranges and I’ve played at Ranges since.”

Q: What role do you expect to play this year?

JA: “I think I’ll still be high half-back but probably roll into the mid. I think Jarrad (Donders, head coach) wants me a little bit in forward as well so a little bit around the ground.”

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

JA: “Definitely my run and carry off half-back and probably my footy IQ. Knowing where to kick and knowing where to position myself.”

Q: What about in terms of your improvements in your game?

JA: “My groundballs under pressure and probably my aerial.”

Q: What’s it been like coming through the pathway, seeing the success that Ranges have had and now you’re into your top-age year?

JA: “It’s pretty cool. Playing as a bottom-bottom-ager and having Ava Campbell as your captain. She really helped a lot and then last year was probably my best year of footy. Had so much fun, I enjoyed it a lot with Grace Belloni and Molly Paterson and all those girls, Briso (Georgie Brisbane). Now being there I’ve got a lot of their advice so I just want to play good footy and enjoy it.”

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

JA: “Probably my poppy and my mum. Since I was little they’ve always supported me. My whole family does, but those two the most.”

Q: Which AFL/W club do you support?

JA: “Brisbane.”

Q: Is there a story behind that?

JA: “My poppy went for Fitzroy and we just had to all follow him.”

Q: Is there players you look up to or model your game at the top level?

JA: “I wouldn’t really say individual players, I like watching Nick Daicos play and Lachie Neale.”

Q: In terms of your goals you set for yourself this year, what are you hoping to achieve?

JA: “I want to play consistent footy and obviously win a grand final, and then hopefully to get drafted. So those three and just enjoy my last year.”