SYDNEY Swans Academy talent Lucinda Watson is one of a number of AFLW Draft prospects out of the North Shore Bombers and growing New South Wales region who has developed her game immensely in the last 12 months. The promising midfielder earned a spot in the Allies squad off the back of fine form for the Swans at Coates Talent League Girls level.

We spoke to Watson during that stint about her journey, inspirations and goals for the future.

Q: Lucinda, could you give us an insight into your footy journey?

LW: “I think I was around eight or nine and I have a twin brother and his friends were all playing and I was kind of his support buddy and then I was asked to join his team. From there I just loved it.”

Q: How would you describe yourself as a player?

LW: “Clean with the ball and I have good spatial awareness.”

Q: What do you see as some of your strengths on the field?

LW: “Definitely clean, I can hit a target hand or foot. Again, just knowing where I am on the field.”

Q: Is there anything you’re looking to improve on?

LW: “Currently I’m looking to improve on my drive out of a contest.”

Q: What’s your preferred role on the field?

LW: “Midfield, but I don’t mind going half-forward.”

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

LW: “Tanya Hetherington, and ‘Twiggy’ (Kristie Whittard) who is our other coach. Just their positivity and knowing they have belief in me which is really good.”

Q: Which club do you support?

LW: “Definitely the Swans.”

Q: Did you plauy any other sports growing up at all?

LW: “I did a lot of dancing which I travelled for. Gymnastics, swimming, Nippers, netball.”

Q: How do you think those sports have helped your footy?

LW: “Dancing definitely influences AFL well, like flexibility I don’t really get injured a lot. Netball probably a lot with being clean.”

Q: Which AFL/W player do you look up to or model your game?

LW: “Mon Conti through the midfield and Cynthia Hamilton through forward and mid now.”

Q: Finally, what goals do you have set for yourself this year?

LW: “Definitely overall to get drafted. Starting with Allies.”

Q: Is Sydney the goal to get drafted for you?

LW: “Obviously yes it’s home, but I don’t mind going anywhere.”