Meet Werribee’s newest AFL recruit.
Aliesha Newman has been signed by Melbourne Football Club as the third and final free agent in its inaugural women’s squad.
The 21-year-old, a Western Bulldogs supporter, has never played competitive football, but has a strong sport background.
She plays soccer for Calder United and has competed in cross-country and track and field championships through Western Athletics and in all-school competitions.
Newman trialled for Melbourne earlier this year “for a laugh” and, despite receiving a call back, didn’t think too much of it when she didn’t make the cut and also missed out during the draft.
“We were told if we didn’t get picked in the draft, there was still three free agent positions,” she said.
“But I thought, straight up, my chances were gone because I don’t play footy.
“Then the coach called me and told me I was in contention for the last free agent position – and I was like, really?
“He asked me to come down and have a kick so that he could see my skills one-on-one. It all happened really quickly … I still can’t believe it.”
Newman, who works as a postie for Australia Post, will start pre-season training with the Demons this month.
