Like many other young girls around the country, Sierra Miles is hoping she can follow in the footsteps of those in the Crows AFL Women’s team and play Australian Rules at the elite level one day.
Sierra had a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Adelaide Football Club this week led by co-captain Chelsea Randall and defender Anne Hatchard, who wanted to thank the 10-year-old for her support.
Sierra met Randall at a school footy clinic held in the week leading into the AFL Women’s Grand Final, and she knew immediately that she wanted to be in the stands for the big game.
The Surrey Downs Primary School student raced home and begged her dad to take her to the Gold Coast to cheer her new heroes on.
Persuaded by her daughter’s passion, Sierra’s dad obliged and three days later they found themselves at Metricon Stadium witnessing the Crows women claim the inaugural premiership cup.
In the Crows’ lap of honour afterward, Sierra had the chance to say ‘Hello’ to Randall and share what the experience meant to her.
“We went and talked to Chelsea and we got a photo with her and that was really cool,” Sierra said.
Randall, who is working to grow female engagement in the sport as part of her role with the Club’s community team, said Sierra highlighted the strong support the team has received.
“Sierra’s story is just one example of the impact the AFLW and Adelaide Crows Women’s Team has had on young aspiring girls and boys,” Randall said.
“After hearing her story, we wanted to invite Sierra to the Club to give her a further taste of what it’s like to be a footy player and, hopefully, further grow her passion.
“To have female football role models is pretty significant for young girls and we feel really honoured to have inspired so many.”
Sierra with Chelsea Randall after the AFLW Grand Final at Metricon Stadium