Player gets jump on season

Winger Teagan Price came first in Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault’s Aerial Run this pre-season, beating Hannah Jacks to the finish line.

Price outclassed her teammates in the 8km run which peaked at 290m above sea level. It was her first time taking part in the run.

“It was a lot harder than I expected, the hill was torturous,” Price said.

The Aerial Run was used as preseason preparation by the HBL Football Club back in the 1970s and 1980s.

The name was inspired by a leg in the run that features a brutally steep hill. This was to help players build endurance and fitness ahead of the season. The tradition was revived eight years ago by the Talbot family who live in Brunswick.

This year’s run was held to honour Riley Morgan, a five-year-old who died of diphtheria in Brunswick in the early 1900s. His family buried him in Brunswick as they were afraid of taking him back to the camp in case the infection spread.

Hannah Jacks and Emily Reilly also ran strong times for the women, with Brady Hough winning the men’s run.

Price said the HBL women’s team was looking fit ahead of the 2020 season.

“We lost a few players which was sad, however we have new girls and they are doing incredible, it is great to have a bit of youth,” she said.

Price started playing football last year, after making the switch from soccer.

“I finished playing soccer in 2017 and after a year off I was excited to try something new.”

Price admitted being nervous at the beginning but has since settled in nicely.

“The support from the girls and the club is great, you are encouraged to be the best you can be and to push yourself that little bit harder.”

Women’s footy is on the rise and Price said the HBL culture felt like a family.

“I think it’s so important for everyone to play a sport, it is great for both physical and mental health,” she said.

“It is so good to see people from all different walks of life on the field — sport brings everyone together.

“The HBL Lionesses team is unreal; the atmosphere is amazing. If you’re down, the girls will lift you up, both on and off the field.”