St Kilda drafted a 27yo who couldn’t kick. She ended up as captain

In late October 2019, 27-year-old Hannah Priest was preparing for her Year 12 exams when she requested permission to miss a day of school to fly to Melbourne for a potential AFLW draft opportunity. Principal John agreed, and Priest seized the chance, ultimately being selected by St Kilda with pick No.41. Upon arrival in Melbourne, the young netballer from Adelaide was surprised by the reception she received from her new teammates and coaches. She finished the year and went on to play every game for the Saints since.

Priest's career trajectory highlights the rapid growth and development of the AFLW over the past few years. Raised playing netball, she transitioned to football once the Women's competition was introduced in 2017. Had she been drafted a few years earlier, Priest might not have had the opportunity to pursue her passion for the sport.

After being picked alongside other young athletes, Priest learned to kick the ball and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming co-captain in 2020 and sole captain in 2022. She held the position for six seasons before stepping down to make way for the next leader, Serene Watson.

Upon her arrival at Moorabbin, Priest was mentored by Hawthorn's Jarryd Roughead, who became a significant influence in her life. As a former Hawthorn supporter, Priest's transition from a high school teacher to the captain of a professional AFLW team demonstrates the remarkable growth and progress of the Women's competition. When the Saints face Carlton in the club's first AFLW game at Docklands Stadium, Priest acknowledges the significance of the occasion, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support for her teammates and the broader community.