The reputation of the Bond University football program has been on display over summer with a host of AFLW players choosing to spend their off-season training with the Bull Sharks.
Carlton players Brooke Vickers and Mia Austin and former Bull Sharks Taylor Smith from the Brisbane Lions and Sydney Swan Ruby Sergeant Wilson have been regulars on the track.
Casi Simmons from GWS also dropped in while on a quick trip to the Gold Coast.
Another Bondy, Brisbane Lion Mikki Pauga, is also relishing a pre-season back with the Bull Sharks and hopes to be able to play a handful of games before the AFLW season resumes.
The Bull Sharks have produced more AFLW players than any other club in Australia and has a well-deserved reputation as a nursery for female talent.
Under new director of football Andy Lovell, the program has taken another step forward in professionalism.
Lovell has thoroughly enjoyed his first pre-season coaching a women’s program and says it gave him confidence to see players from the elite level saw value in training at Bond.
“I’ve been really impressed with the entire squad,” he said.
“They’re keen to learn and they want to work hard on the track.
“And it has been pleasing to have some AFLW players come down and train with us, our girls are picking up little things from them which is great.
“But it also shows them that what we are doing with our skills and fitness work and our game education mirrors an AFLW environment.’’