Adelaide AFLW forward Jess Waterhouse can sum up her off-season in just a few words - “lots of running and lots of gym”.
The 25-year-old, who made their debut in the record-breaking 96-point win over GWS in Season Seven and lined up in the inaugural Showdown, was hopeful of earning another opportunity to play at the top level this year.
And a focus for Waterhouse this off-season has been about getting fitter, stronger and faster.
Speaking to AFC Media, the forward said players had been training in small groups to keep motivated and connected, during what had already been a two-month off-season.
“My main goal is to keep my strength so I’m keeping up the weights but also getting better at repeat speed, agility and just getting faster and fitter,” Waterhouse said.
“For me it's a lot of running and lots of gym.
“We’ve done a bit of running at Seacliff with some of the girls.
“After being away from the group for a bit and then going back, it just felt comfortable and it’s been great to reconnect with the group.”
Waterhouse also credited three-time Premiership defender and Vice Captain Sarah Allan for helping to fast track their development during this off-season.
“Sezzy lives down south as well, so we’ve met up for a couple of sessions and are planning to meet for a few more over the next couple of months,” Waterhouse said.
“We’ve been checking in on each other and really encouraging each other, and she’s been a really good support.
“It’s been nice to see the core group of girls go out to the sessions, it keeps everyone connected.”
Waterhouse conceded off-seasons could sometimes be a bit tough, and to make it easier, their fiance` Emma came up with an idea to try and make more interesting - film the days and turn them into TikTok videos.
“Emma came up with the idea, just for a bit of fun, to fill our time in the off-season,” Waterhouse said.
“Fitness is an area of my game that I can improve on and working out isn’t always that fun but when you’re keeping it interesting, it’s fun.
“I have been enjoying the process and a couple of younger people who have started playing football have commented on (the TikTok videos) and it’s just good that other people are interested in what I do.”
