The GIANTS AFL Women’s squad has hit the ground running with preparations for the 2020 season getting underway with a 2km time trial at Tom Wills Oval on Monday evening.

For the GIANTS’ 2019 draft group, including Emily Goodsir, the training session was an exciting first step in their journey as AFLW players. 

The 27-year-old from western Sydney had been waiting excitedly for day one of the pre-season since being drafted with pick 76 of the 2019 NAB AFL Women’s Draft last month.

“We had the 2km time trial first up which was a little bit nerve-wracking, but we got it done and got straight into some kicking drills and handballing drills,” she said.

“All the girls were getting around each other, so it was a really good vibe.” 

Goodsir, who played in the Sydney Women’s Premier Division competition with the East Coast Eagles, said the session was a big step up from playing in the local competition.

“I did the VFLW program with the girls, so I think I got a taste of what it was going to be like in that,” she said.

“It’s a massive step up, but all of the girls are so positive and motivating so they’ve helped a lot. 

“Tay (Taylah Davies) is always motivating me and pushing me which is great, Dally (Jess Dal Pos) and Tanny (Tanya Hetherington). I was grouped up with her, so she was pushing me along the whole way.”

While Goodsir has had a few new names to learn, she does have a few friends within the GIANTS’ playing group.

The tough and explosively quick midfielder played alongside fellow draftee Georgia Garnett and NAB AFLW Rising Star Nominee Haneen Zreika at East Coast in 2019.

“It was great to have some familiar faces and especially playing with those girls at club level,” Goodsir said.

“Coming to the GIANTS knowing those girls already has made me feel really comfortable.” 

It’s a massive step up, but all of the girls are so positive and motivating so they’ve helped a lot.

- Emily Goodsir

While the GIANTS’ 2019 pre-season started in familiar fashion with the 2km time trial, the playing group will be treated to something different this weekend.

The GIANTS are heading off for their first pre-season camp.

“It’s going to be great,” Goodsir said. “I looked at the schedule and there’s going to be kayaking in there and we’ve got a beach session as well, so I think it’ll be a little bit of fun as well as the training and the hard stuff so I’m looking forward to it.”