Exciting first-year Eagle Charlotte Riggs had a breakout season in the blue and gold, making her debut against St Kilda in round three.

Riggs impressed with football smarts beyond her years, her run and carry and poise under pressure, and received a nomination for Goal of the Year for a sensational running goal in West Coast’s round four win against Port Adelaide.

Q: First year in the blue and gold, was being on an AFLW list everything you were expecting?

It has been such a good experience. I have learned so much about myself and have developed more than I thought was possible. There were several great things I discovered, like free choccy milk on Thursdays. But genuinely each day something new or different is happening which is what I love about West Coast.

Q: Playing finals in your first year, you must be pretty stoked with how the team performed this season?

I think it is a result of all the hard work and dedication the girls have put in to not just this preseason, but an accumulation over the past couple of years. It makes me so grateful for the girls who have invested in the development of not only themselves, but also the people around them to help get West Coast to this point. Making finals in my first year was such a surreal experience, but we are no way near done. I am so excited to start preparing for next season.  

Q: Moving over to Perth from SA, how have you found the relocation?

I am so grateful for the support staff, especially Janelle Marangon (Player Development Manager), who helped me settle in after making the move from South Australia. The support has been constant with check ins happening every day. I have loved settling down in Perth, especially learning to surf and enjoying the beach lifestyle. I have a really close support system back in Adelaide so leaving was hard, but I’ve felt incredible guidance from everyone at the club, which has really eased the transition.

Q: Your family attended so many of the matches, how great was it having that love and support throughout the season?

I am so blessed to have my family who have supported me throughout my whole life. Living away from them in Perth has been difficult, but I am so grateful for their sacrifices and helping in any way possible. It goes beyond my family, I have an entire support network in Adelaide who have gone out of their way to check in and also support me.

Q: Which of your teammates have your really gravitated to or formed a special bond with this season?

From the moment I walked into the club, all the girls have been so supportive and welcoming. I have loved getting to know each of them throughout this year. Initially I stayed with Liz McGrath and Kayla Dalgleish, which cemented our friendship early on. It was great being able to go through this year with others who had a similar experience moving interstate and starting at a new club. Bella Lewis took me under her wing and has been an incredible source of guidance and encouragement, both on and off the field. Each of the girls have helped me in so many different ways, we truly are sisters.

Q: What is some great advice you’ve received on your journey so far, from a teammate, coach or staff member?

I have learned so much throughout this entire year, but a theme which has stood out through different conversations with teammates, coaches and staff is that the things we choose to do now is all for long term success. You might not see immediate results, but in the weeks or years to come, that is when you see the real impact. This has helped a lot, especially as a first-year player. I am learning to trust the process more and enjoy the small wins that come with it. 

Q: How did you find AFLW icon Daisy Pearce as coach, and what does she do to really instil belief into this group?

I am still in awe every time I chat with Daisy. Growing up she was a role model, especially for my younger sister, so getting the chance to be coached by her is surreal. Daisy is so passionate about football, and it’s evident every time she speaks and the way she carries herself around the club. Daisy has a great ability to celebrate every single person’s strength. She has so much faith in each of the girls to do their role, and I think that is why we have so much belief in ourselves.

Q: What have you got planned for the off-season?

I am excited to spend some time experiencing all the perks of being Perth. Heading to the beach, Rottnest Island, hanging out with friends, doing a barista course. Heading back home will also be lovely. I cannot wait to spend time with my family. I also have a trip to New Zealand planned which will be so much fun!