It’s no surprise that Justine Mules is a tough and strong footballer, with her work at the City of Adelaide giving her the strength to perform on the field.
In the latest BHP Down to Earth instalment, Crows midfielder Mules details her role as a construction worker.
“I do maintenance and repairs work, from paving, to installing drains, to concreting,” Mules said.
“An average day is a six o’clock start at the depot.
“From there, we have a little tablet that we work off which has all our maintenance jobs on there, and then me and my co-worker decide what jobs we’ll do for the day.
“I finish at three, go home, get showered, get dressed and then come to training.”
The 23-year-old believes the physical labour she does at work has assisted her transition to AFLW.
“I think work has helped with my body, for me getting strong,” Mules said.
“Not preparing myself to be drafted, but through doing the heavy work I do, the physical labour, it has definitely helped my upper body.”
Mules was recruited to Adelaide from Morphettville Park in the 2016 NAB AFLW Draft, and played five games in the 2017 season, including the premiership.
She has played all three games of the 2018 AFLW season so far.
Having that year under her belt has really helped Mules this season.
“Juggling work and training is quite hectic on my body. I think coming from last season I have been able to adapt a bit better this year,” Mules said.
“Being able to see from last year what worked well for me and my body, so having that routine of eating properly, getting my carbs in, getting enough coffees into my day, that’s helped.”
The BHP Down to Earth videos will be released during the 2018 AFLW season on the AFC website, social channels and app, to give fans greater insight into the lives of Crows AFLW players.
More BHP Down to Earth
BHP – through its South Australian Olympic Dam operation – is a co-major partner for the Crows AFLW team for the 2018, 2019 and 2020 AFLW seasons.
