Adelaide recruit Brooke Boileau believes an “intense” first AFLW pre-season is set to hold her in good stead for the Crows’ 2024 campaign.
The Crows selected Boileau with their first pick at the 2023 AFLW National Draft after solid national championships for SA, in which she averaged the third-most disposals and clearances across the carnival.
Speaking to AFC Media after the Crows’ final pre-season hit-out against Carlton, Boileau said training in an elite environment had helped her develop.
“I have absolutely loved this pre-season and being exposed to that next level of intensity and speed and the different programs we’ve had to do has been challenging,” Boileau said.
“I have learnt a lot from the coaches and the players, especially with doing the small things right and what I’ve been trying to add to my game.
“I’m very hopeful that I can try and crack into the team and get myself a game.
“But I think just being able to take away all the feedback that I've got from the coaches and the specific key areas I need to work on, has been great.”
The 19-year-old said she had been working hard to build up her strength to help her match it with experienced opponents.
“There’s bigger bodies on the field, so I’ve been trying to build that strength to be strong enough,” Boileau said.
“The contests are a lot harder but I think the pre-season has prepared not only me but everyone well enough for this season.
“It’s been a very big step up but I have loved the challenge and I love competing."
Boileau split her time between the midfield and the forward lines during the trial against the Blues, catching the eye of Coach Matthew Clarke with her “good run, pressure and some nice aerial moments”.
The Crows kick off their 2024 campaign with Showdown against Port Adelaide on Saturday, August 31 and Boileau says players are keen to get the season underway.
“The energy is very high and there is a lot of excitement in the group heading into Round One,” Boileau said.
“Everyone is so driven and working really hard. We’re all on the same page with what needs to be done.
“We are such a tight-knit group and we do put a lot of emphasis on being team-first.
“Doc does a really good job in making sure everyone is team-first and we want to strive for that as well.”
