“I’M a Bluebagger now. I’m excited.”

The smile couldn’t be wiped off the face of Madison Prespakis after she officially made her way to Carlton in the 2018 AFLW draft.

The gun midfield youngster became a Blue earlier at today’s draft at Marvel Stadium, taken with pick No.3 as the first Victorian metropolitan selection.

Speaking to media after her selection, Prespakis - regarded as the most talented player in this year’s draft class - couldn’t hide her delight about today’s events.

“I’m very relieved, you can’t wipe the smile off my face,” Prespakis said.

“I can’t wait to start.”


Madison Prespakis became a Blue after being taken with pick No.3 in the AFLW draft. (Photo: AFL Media)

Winning awards wherever she’s played, Prespakis capped her 18th year with All Australian selection, best-and-fairest awards and now a spot in the AFLW.

Given the rise of the competition heading into season three, Prespakis admitted that there were times when she never thought she’d get the chance.

“It’s been a long time coming. I thought my career would be cut short when I was playing alongside the boys,” Prespakis said.

“I didn’t think I’d ever get this opportunity. Now that it’s here, I jumped at it with both hands and worked as hard as I could.

“Dreams do come true.”

As she’s worked her way through the ranks, Prespakis has become somewhat of a poster girl for the next generation of AFLW footballers.

Having played football from the get-go, Prespakis - who turns 18 next Friday - said getting drafted was a significant moment for her and her family.

And one family member may be more excited than most.

“For my family, it’d mean everything to them to see me achieve my dream. I’ve wanted to do this since I was a little girl,” Prespakis said.

“My family are a range of things, supporting a number of clubs. My pop goes for Carlton… I think he’ll be very excited.”

All eyes are on AFLW 3.0 for Prespakis, particularly with the 2019 fixture announcement imminent.

“I just want to play good footy, and play whatever role the team gives me,” Prespakis said.

“For now, my first goal is to get through pre-season and hopefully tick off Round 1.

“I’m really looking forward to playing alongside people like the Hosking twins, Brianna Davey, Darcy Vescio and Tayla Harris and all the girls.”