There isn’t a much bigger stage to play your milestone game on than the MCG.
And for Jade Ellenger, she’ll get to notch up 25 Games in this weekend’s Preliminary Final at the iconic venue.
“I feel like it’s come around so quick,” Ellenger said.
“It’s a big moment and getting to have it at the MCG is just amazing.”
“I’ve got my family coming down, and some family in Melbourne that have been watching too, and then two of my best friends are flying down as well so they’ll be there.
“I’m just really looking forward to it.”
Drafted in 2019, the Academy product didn’t cement her place in the Lions’ lineup until the 2021 season.
Grabbing hold of the opportunity with both hands, Ellenger has become a mainstay in the side bringing plenty of run on the wing and the versatility to head down back or run up for goal.
Her 2022 season has been her best so far, with the 22-year-old crediting her development to the encouragement of Head Coach Craig Starcevich.
“Craig has always pushed me to be that running player, take the run, take the bounce,” Ellenger said.
“And as soon as I started doing that at QWAFL and started bringing it here as well, it’s taken my game to another level.
“He had the confidence in me from the start, but I really only had the confidence in myself [to play like that] from this year.”
Averaging 11.5 disposals, 232.4 metres gained, 2.2 marks and 2.3 tackles per game, Ellenger has boosted her statistic in nearly every area this season compared to last.
Off-field it’s much the same story, with the 22-year-old believing she’s miles from where she was when she first arrived at the Lions.
“I was just 18 when I arrived at the Club, I didn’t know what I was doing!”
“I feel like moving out of home [this year] and being more responsible for myself has translated into my footy.
“I’ve definitely tried to take on more responsibility on field this season.
“I’ve got a bit more game time, a bit more game awareness and a lot more experience now.
“Hopefully I can keep building on that and growing over the next 25 games too.”
Jade Ellenger will play her 25th AFLW game this weekend in the Preliminary Final between Melbourne and Brisbane at the MCG. Tickets are FREE, so redeem yours HERE.
