For midfielder Amelia Radford, her own unique path to the elite level is one that has flourished throughout her late 20’s. 

An eventful two years has led the 28-year-old from the grassroots scene to now playing an integral role in the Bombers’ lineup ahead of their second year in the competition. 

“The last two years were crazy, everything came pretty quickly,” Radford said. 

“I was only just playing local footy before making the VFLW team, to then winning the premiership (in 2022) and making the AFLW list.” 

Radford says if someone had told a younger version of herself about the position she’d find herself in, she wouldn’t have believed it. 

“Football was never really an option when I was younger, to be able to get here is incredible,” Radford said. 

“I played soccer for 12-13 years, did the Auskick pathway but junior footy wasn’t really an option, so I decided to take a break from sport together to focus on my studies and career.”  

In this break, Radford broke into the professional industry where she now serves as integral member of Uber’s Australian operations.  

Balancing a full-time job and playing AFLW football can be tricky, but Radford finds plenty of worth in her long hours both in the office and on the track. 

“I was always so invested in my personal career, I currently work full-time at Uber in a strategy and operations role. Between travelling across the state, hours of meeting and managing a team accompanied by AFLW commitment, it does keep me very busy,” Radford said. 

“I love both these aspects of my life and the challenge it brings.” 

With pre-season ramping up and the campaign fast approaching, Radford feels better than ever heading into her second season. 

Radford’s first full AFLW pre-season was aided by a strong block of VFLW action that saw her average 26.2 disposals and 6.7 tackles through four games with the Bombers. 

Her mindset towards this has been second to none. 

“The speed of the (AFLW) game is on another level. For me, the most important thing from playing back in the VFLW was taking that standard into the games,” Radford said. 

“It was my first full footy pre-season which allowed me to have a good block of VFLW games. I feel a lot fitter and a lot more confident in my own ability. 

“There has also been a lot of crossover between the VFLW and AFLW programs which made it a great environment to be in.” 

This environment has seen a boost in morale among Essendon’s camp, with the group feeling positive heading into season 2023. 

“I think (the vibes are) very high. We have had so much time together this off-season to allow for us to establish great connections,” Radford said. 

2023 memberships are also available which you can purchase here.