FROM her debut in Round 2 to a Rising Star nomination in Round 4, Keeley Skepper hasn’t missed a beat at AFLW level.

But for the 18-year-old from Wodonga, she just wanted to embrace the opportunity.

“I tried to enjoy the experience because I was a new player on the list. I wasn't trying to put too much pressure on myself, especially early on in the season,” Skepper said.

“I just tried to enjoy it and I learned so much every week – I learned heaps this season, and I think I can get even better next season.”

From the moment she walked through the doors at IKON Park, Skepper was ready to get to work and was embraced by the playing group with open arms.

“All the girls made it really welcoming and all the coaching staff as well – I've loved every minute here,” she said.

“I think everyone in the team was really helpful from day one, to be honest. There was nobody I could say that wouldn't help me out. I'm so grateful for everyone in the team.”

Skepper’s AFLW debut was one to remember, from both an individual and team perspective.

The Blues conquered old rivals Essendon by a single point, with Skepper playing an integral role through her 14 disposals, four marks, team-high 289 metres gained and a goal.

However, it was Round 4 that Skepper truly made her mark, receiving a Rising Star nomination when she picked up 14 disposals, three tackles and contributed a team-high 384 metres gained in just her third game for the Blues.

She went on to piece together a season beyond her years, averaging 10.9 disposals, 2.3 score involvements and 234.9 metres gained – earning selection in the AFLPA 22under22 squad for her efforts.

For Skepper, consistency was always key.

“Being consistent across the board was really important for me.”

“You don't want to play one game, and then that's it for the season. I just wanted to really try to keep my spot in the team and really help the girls out.”

Even more impressive, Skepper maintained that consistency whilst balancing her football with completing high school – a feat she credits to the environment provided to her.

“I think I was lucky, my school was really helpful so I found that balance pretty well.

“Once I finished school I could really focus more on my footy and I wasn't so tired from all the travelling that I was doing.”

And despite heading into the off season, Skepper’s mind is still focused solely on football.

“I think I want to get a little bit bigger in the gym so I can get more ground balls and don't get pushed off – take some more marks and get a bit more dangerous forward,” she said.

“I’m probably going to come in here every day so good luck to everyone else who has to deal with me for the whole off-season.”