After emerging from that lockdown, she decided to find out what the club was all about.

Sumpter, who grew up playing netball, described her first year as "a learning experience". She did a lot of watching - studying - as she learned the game.

And the 17-year-old notched up three games for the Poochettes which has her hungry for more.

"I wanted to stick to AFL this year because I really wanted to get better at it," Sumpter said.

She added: "The club and team is really welcoming, it's a good environment. It made it easy to want to come back."

If her first game of the year is anything to go by, she could be in for a big season.

Sumpter was named player's player in round one where she was in the thick of it.

"This season I've mainly played in the middle which I like a lot. It's right in the action," she said.

Sumpter isn't the only youngster turning out for Gunnedah this season.

Maya Gallagher and Emelia Maher have also picked up the game.

The trio, known around the club as the new wave of 'The Rapscallions', have known each other since primary school and are now learning the game together.

"We're the three youngest in the team," Sumpter said.

"Everyone helps us a bit more, teaches us and mentors us. It's a good group to look up to." Gunnedah will be after a third straight win as they take on New England in Armidale this weekend.

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