Player Focus: Maddi Wilson
Maddi Wilson’s love for footy started in 2011 when she wanted to emulate her sister’s success on the sporting field.
Giving up dancing and committing to a sport she now loves, Wilson has flourished at Sandringham and beyond, renowned for her skill, game sense and leadership.
Being named in the 2018 TAC Cup Girls leadership team at the Dragons was reward for Wilson’s passion and drive, but for her it came as a pleasant surprise.
“I was actually really shocked to be named in it to be honest,” Wilson said.
“There were so many leaders in the team, I think it was just well-rounded leadership from everyone in the group.
“I was very shocked but honoured at the same time that the girls had the trust and belief in me to lead them.”
A 7-2 season from the team was a great result for Sandringham and Wilson noted the strong team culture as a catalyst for their success.
“Personally, it was slow coming back from injury but I soon found my feet in the team,” Wilson said.
“It was a really good team environment that made every session easier.
“I had trust in our structures, coaches and the girls around me so I really enjoyed it.”
Wilson hasn’t yet decided what path she wants to take in the coming years off the field but is determined to reach her dream goal of getting drafted into the AFLW system.
Work-ethic and her want to get better every day have pushed Wilson to greater heights in recent years, giving her every chance to be the best footballer she can be.
“Ever since having the injury last year that had me out of the game for six months I think it made me realise why I do it and what I really want to do in the future which is play AFLW,” Wilson said.
“That was a big change in my development and getting my body right.”
The Dragons’ leader has recently been signed by the Darebin Falcons in the VFLW, playing alongside AFLW guns in what has been an “awesome” experience.
“I’ve loved every minute of it because Darebin is such a friendly, loving environment to be in so it’s made times easier,” Wilson said.
“That’s what drew me to the club.”
Western Bulldogs’ AFLW star Katie Brennan is a teammate of Wilson at Darebin and has had a significant influence on her career on and off the field.
Brennan’s served as a role model for Wilson through her passion for women’s football and her willingness to assist the next generation.
“Her support and her willingness to help and wanting to develop young female footballers has really inspired me,” Wilson said.
“We’ve been in similar situations with injuries and just working through it together and having her support has really helped.
“Whether it’s helping me in strength and conditioning or my personal life she’s really helped me to develop to where I am now.”
Following a fruitful career at the Dragons, Wilson now plans to represent Darebin for the next few years, working closer and closer to fulfilling her footy dream.
Sam Bunn