Players make way to big league

BENDIGO Pioneers clubmates Lila Keck, Bryde O’Rourke and Keely Fullerton will take a huge step in their football journey with AFLW clubs next season.

An outstanding run with the Bendigo Pioneers in the Coates Talent League competition and for Victoria Country at national titles caught the eye of recruiting scouts and coaches in the big league.

The play of all three on the footy field meant they earned scholarships through the Bendigo Sports Star of the Year awards for 2023.

A speedy forward/midfielder, Lila Keck was taken at pick seven by Carlton.

Captain of Victoria Country this season, Lila was presented with her Blues guernsey by Kerryn Peterson, nee Harrington, a previous winner of the Maxine Crouch Trust Fund in Sports Star through her feats on the basketball court.

Best known for her footy, Lila is also a talented batter in cricket.

Family links to South Bendigo FNC go back a long way.

Lila’s dad, Mark is a multiple premiership player with the Bloods, and her uncle, Robbin earned a Michelsen Medal as a Bendigo FNL fairest and best starring for the red and white.

It was a father-daughter selection which meant Bryde O’Rourke will make her way to Geelong.

A team-mate of Lila’s at Strathfieldsaye Storm, Bryde was taken at pick 23.

A midfielder or forward, Bryde’s dad, Ray played two matches for the Cats in 1969.

Gold Coast took Eaglehawk winger Keely Fullerton at pick 36.

Keely’s pace and skill were to the fore at this year’s national championships.