SEIZING the opportunity
While results may not have fallen the way of the Blues in season seven, the development of young talent was a promising sign for the future.
One of the most improved players league-wide, Abbie McKay saw an opportunity in her fifth season of AFLW and grabbed it with both hands.
“I think my improvement was just down to experience, honestly,” McKay said.
“That was my fifth AFLW season now which seems like a lot considering I’m only 21.
“I think I'm just getting a feel for the midfield – we're working really well together, which always helps me as an individual when everyone else is playing their role and I can play mine. We all kind of blossom from one another's talent.”
Improving on all key statistics from season six to seven, McKay averaged 20.7 disposals (up on last season’s 13.8), 11.6 contested possessions (6.2), 4.8 clearances (2.2) and 7.4 tackles (3.3).
She was one of four Navy Blue inclusions in the AFLPA 22under22 squad and was nominated for the AFLW Coles Fan Awards in the ‘Most Improved Player’ category.
And while only 21 years of age herself, McKay has led the Blues’ engine room, taking on added responsibility amongst a young midfield group.
“We didn't have as many wins as what we would have liked but we learned a lot and we're a really young group that are growing,” she said.
“I think we gained a lot of experience out of this season and from a young person's point of view I think every game counts, win or loss.”
McKay was also one of Carlton’s most consistent performers, tallying AFLCA votes in six games as the highest-polling Blue with 27 votes.
However, her sights are still set on improvement.
“I think just keep improving on my fitness and I’d love to kick a goal or two, that’s something that I struggle with a little bit," she said.
“I think just improving on all aspects of my footy. Also just working together with other teammates, understanding their strengths and how I can help them and how they can help me. I think just as a team collectively it'll just be good to grow in all aspects of the game.”
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