Leading WA Draft Contender To Leave Comfort ZoneMonday, December 11, 2023 - 9:36 AM

Peel Thunder midfielder Kaitlyn Srhoj looms as one of the first West Australians to be selected in next week’s AFLW Draft.

Srhoj has shown during her WAFLW and AFLW U18 Championship appearances that she belongs at the top level, a midfielder who also exhibits great marking skills.

The chance to join an AFLW club is becoming closer and closer for Srhoj.

“If you asked me this a month ago I would have answered a bit more apprehensively as the thought of the draft sparked nerves and excitement but reflecting on the year I’ve had and the opportunities I’ve been given, I just have pure excitement as well as a bit more confidence,” she said.

2023 has been a year of development for the Peel top ager.

“This year flew by very quickly, and it was hard to find a healthy balance juggling high level football with ATAR commitments, but I’m thankful for the opportunities I have been given and I’m proud to say I have done everything I could possibly have done to put myself in good stead in the upcoming draft.

“However, I learned so much this year and I received an insight into how challenging it may be dealing with football and university.

“But this is my dream, and I would love to pursue both to the best of my ability.”

Srhoj has applied to be selected nationally in next Monday’s Draft, which means her AFLW career is set to begin away from WA.

“It wasn’t an easy decision to make, hypothetically leaving behind my family and friends will be hard, but I’ve got a goal and that is to be drafted and applying nationally allows myself to be given 18 chances to be picked up in the draft.

“I also feel as though a major factor leading to this decision was the idea that I need to be ‘uncomfortable to be comfortable’ and I feel as though I am going to excel both as a footballer and a person by making this move.”

Trent Cooper, WAFC Coaching Specialist – Female Talent Pathways, has assessed Kaitlyn’s strengths.

“She’s a versatile player who excels as an outside player and provides great run and precision delivery,” Cooper said.

“Kaitlyn can also go inside and win her own ball when needed.

“Named on a wing in the All-Australian 18’s this season, she is a natural in that position, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see her make an immediate impact in the AFLW competition off half-back or up forward for the team that selects her in the draft.”