Maisy Evans made an immediate impact on the Bull Sharks.
The Riewoldt Family AFL Excellence Scholarship recipient didn’t arrive on the Gold Coast until March and coach Andy Lovell admits to wondering if she could adapt to the Bull Sharks’ game plan, and get fit enough for senior QAFLW footy, in time for the star of the season a few weeks later.
The first few training sessions at The Canal put those fears to bed.
“We were all very excited about what we saw on the track, and we knew she’d be a great asset to our club and our team,” he said.
“She’s tall and athletic and plays to her strengths, but she is also a very clever footballer who can influence the game with little actions that no one else would think of doing.”
Lovell threw her into the fray for the round one clash with Yeronga and two minutes into the game he knew the move had paid off when 18-year-old kicked the first goal of the QAFLW season with her first possession.
Abby Collins caught up with the Bond University Bachelor of Health Sciences students on the eve of her first final for the Bull Sharks and learnt the impact of Lovell and her teammates had been just as profound.
Maisy, what can you tell us about Andy Lovell as a coach?
“Andy is just an all-round good person who is very dedicated to this club and the development of his players. His support for each individual player is second to none and his faith and belief in us girls is incredible. “
Is the program as good as you thought it would be?
“The Bond AFL program is nothing but elite and has improved my game immensely. The culture behind the team is so welcoming and all the support behind us is great to have and we wouldn’t be where we are today without those working behind closed doors.”
What’s the belief like in the team heading into these finals?
“Obviously, there are nerves circling in the air, but I believe our leadership panel are really stepping up and encouraging us to believe in ourselves and strive for the best outcome of winning the flag.”
How are you enjoying your first season here so far?
“I’m so thrilled to be playing with such an awesome bunch of girls this season, so many friendships have been made and I feel a part of the Bond AFL family here. There have been ups and downs in my season, some games going better than others but overall, I’ve learnt so much in myself as a player and on improving my game.”
Which players do you think will make their mark in these finals?
“I think Ella Calleja has been playing in excellent form the past couple weeks and I’m super keen for Jemma Blair to come back into the anchor backline position after missing out on a couple games due to injury and sickness.”
Does it help having so many teammates who have been premiership winners before?
“Although there are a few who played in the grand final last year, this 2024 side is a whole new group as Andy mentions regularly. This whole year we’ve been working hard to create synergy and playing as a team instead of individuals and it’s finally coming into place. So, although it does help having many teammates being premiership winners before, this new side has trust, chemistry and confidence which should get us over the line.”