IN A thrilling season for the Carlton Football Club VFLW team, they have secured their first-ever finals appearance, bringing a wave of excitement around the club.
Maddie Di Cosmo - a key midfielder - shared her thoughts on the team's journey, focusing on improvements in scoring, the impact of personal achievements and the significance of the club's new VFLW facilities.
The Carlton Football Club’s VFLW team is experiencing a mix of excitement and nerves as they celebrate their first-ever finals appearance. Di Cosmo, an integral part of the team's midfield, spoke passionately about the journey thus far and the challenges that lie ahead.
Di Cosmo believes one of the significant improvements for Carlton this season has been their scoring prowess, who surged from the bottom to the top of the ladder in terms of percentage between 2022 and 2023.
"We focused on improving our team connection and structure during the preseason,” Di Cosmo said.
“It was crucial to move the ball effectively through the midfield and deliver it precisely to our forwards, rather than relying on long kicks or chance.
“Our enhanced structure has played a vital role in our improved goal-kicking percentage, which is now among the highest in the league."
Di Cosmo also shared the personal journey she’s been on and the confidence boost she received from last year's Best and Fairest awards, finishing fourth in the league for most disposals for the season.
Placing third in the best-and-fairest count as well as being awarded the Rising Star award in her first year playing in the VFLW league.
"I wasn't expecting it at all, but the recognition gave me a bit of confidence,” she said.
“It was rewarding to see my efforts acknowledged, especially after experiencing ups and downs in my positional changes. The best-and-fairest podium finish motivated me to continue pushing forward and strive for improvement."
When asked about the team's specific areas of focus this season, Di Cosmo spoke on some crucial aspects and changes that the Blues made over the off-season.
"Our tackling pressure, particularly from our defensive line, has been exceptional," she said.
“We emphasise utilising the open side of the ground and this approach has not only contributed to improved scoring but has also allowed our backs to showcase their exceptional ball-handling skills."
Looking ahead to their upcoming match against Williamstown, the midfielder acknowledged the tough encounters they have faced this season, suffering two losses at the hands of Williamstown in 2023.
Di Cosmo explained the importance of a strong start for the Blues, referencing their previous matchups where they had often been caught off guard by the Seagulls’ pressure.
"Williamstown brings intense pressure from the start, so matching their intensity in the first quarter, particularly in the opening minutes, will be crucial for us,” she said.
“Our midfield unit is determined to rectify our previous performance against them, focusing on moving the ball out of stoppages efficiently and utilising our skills effectively."
Participating in their first VFLW season based in the new facilities at IKON Park, Di Cosmo expressed her appreciation for the improvements they have brought to the team's training standards.
Having a dedicated VFLW area and use of the gym and ground has elevated the way the team has been able to recover, which Di Cosmo correlates with the uptick in performance.
"The facilities have raised our standards significantly – we now have a dedicated space for gym work and prioritise recovery,” she said.
“We track recovery points and encourage everyone to use the pools and steam room after training or games. The spacious and well-equipped gym has been a game-changer, accommodating everyone's needs."
Carlton fans eagerly await the team's performance in Sunday’s clash with Williamstown in what promises to be a physical game and a part of history for the Club.
