Four Wilston Grange Gorillas from the QAFLW will play for the Lions AFLW side in tomorrow’s season opener against Adelaide Crows at Hickey Park. Kate Lutkins, Sophie Conway, Rheanne Lugg and Cathy Svarc have all been named in Coach Craig Starcevich’s final 21-women side.  

The afternoon will be extra special for Svarc, who will make her AFLW debut at the Gorillas’ home ground. The 27-year-old said the Gorillas coaches have backed her from day one and have them to thank for pushing her name forward to Starcevich.  

The physio, originally from Albury, NSW only started playing football two years ago.  

“It’s really nice to play at my home ground,” she said. 

“I'm a long way from my family so it’s nice to have a lot of support around there and being in a familiar environment to kick off my debut.” 

She said she will feel comfortable alongside her Gorillas teammate and All Australian Kate Lutkins, who will also be playing at half back. 

“Playing alongside Lutz has been amazing, to learn off her and see how she plays the game,” Svarc said.  

“That's big inspiration for me...She’s a gun and I just love playing alongside her.” 

Conway will be making her return to football on Saturday afternoon after a whole season on the sidelines with an ACL injury.  

She said she was overwhelmed when Starcevich rang to tell her she would play in the forward line.  

“There’s no better feeling,” she said.  

“I'm super stoked, I've worked pretty hard these last 20 months, so I guess to finally have the day come, has been pretty special.”