Fremantle’s marquee selection, Kiara Bowers, was unsure if her dream of AFL football would ever come true, not least this soon.
When discussions for the inaugural women’s competition began, the timeline suggested a starting date closer to 2020.
Next year, Bowers will get the opportunity to make her name on the national stage.
“I remember them saying it would be in 2020 – that was about five years ago,” she said.
“I’d probably have injuries by then.”
“I’d probably be coming to the end of it.
“They’ve pushed it forward to now and I’m ecstatic about it.
“When I was younger, I didn’t think I’d be able to.”
The 24-year-old grew up supporting Melbourne, a side she represented under Freo women’s coach Michelle Cowan for three years.
But her role model, Freo midfielder Lachie Neale, boasts skills she is keen to develop.
“He’s one of my favourite players in the whole competition,” she said.
“It’s such an in and under style and he just racks up the possessions so much.
“He does everything he can and runs all day – I love that about him.
“If I could base my game on someone, it would be him.”
Bowers’ resumé rates among the best of all female footballers, nationally.
AFL announces 2017 women’s marquee players
The midfielder, who is widely regarded as the best runner in the women’s game, has won four Western Australian Women’s Football League best and fairest awards, and represented the WA state side on five occasions.
She currently plays for the Coastal Titans, and is excited to stay in WA.
“I wouldn’t want to play anywhere else.”
“I want to stay here and play for my state and play for Fremantle.”
Looking ahead, she said the foundations are there to make WA a stronghold for women’s football.
“We see a lot of the young girls now when we do clinics.”
“If you have a kick with them, they love to just talk to you about the game.
“It’s really inspiring for us as well as them.
“It goes both ways, because they look up to us, and we look up to them.
“I’m sure we will in the future, as well.”
Kiara Bowers
Age: 24
Midfielder
Plays with Coastal Titans
Selection #19 in 2013 Draft
Played with Melbourne in 2013, 2014, 2015
5 x WA State representative
4 x WAWFL League Best & Fairest
3 x WAWFL player
Area manager for Hendry
