Bendigo Pioneers over-ager Drew Ryan was a ray of consistency for the NAB League Girls side this season. Though others might have caught the eye more often with explosive runs or towering marks, Ryan kept quietly going about her business, racking up the ball and working hard across the ground to be an important fixture in the Pios’ side.

Ryan’s hard work was rewarded with an opportunity to run out with Vic Country at the AFLW Under 18 Championships, where she picked up 12 disposals and had a couple of inside 50s and rebound 50s in Country’s big loss to Vic Metro. Her numbers throughout the season have remained consistent, with Ryan being a clever type who can slot in on all three lines. She spreads well and has such a high work rate that she covers the ground impressively. By hand or foot, Ryan can neatly dispose of it and hit targets, and though not one to really go for those game-changing passes, she plays possession footy and keeps the ball in the hands of teammates. Even under pressure Ryan is not really phased, and though she plays both inside and outside, she is more of a second possession winner than a first.

In terms of areas that Ryan can improve on, the Pioneers talent could build on her overall athleticism. Though she has a high work rate, her endurance can still improve, as can her speed and her agility. Though she makes it work through her ability to find space thanks to her footy smarts, having greater athleticism will allow her to win more ball at the coalface, and also spend more time in there to add another string to her bow.

When assessing Ryan as a talent, it is fair to say from a natural footballing sense, the Pioneers midfielder ticks a lot of boxes, and could be a player clubs work with in the future.