Walking through Mineral Resources Park for the first time as a West Coast Eagle was a moment Mia Russo will never forget.

“It was overwhelming,” Russo said of her arrival at the club.  

“I walked through the boardroom and came out into the lower level, I was on the stairs, and everyone was down there, all the girls and staff clapping for me.

“I was trying really hard not to cry.”

The 18-year-old midfielder who was drafted from West Perth met a handful of new teammates and says the welcome has been nothing short of incredible.

“They’re all so lovely and so welcoming I just can’t wait to get started with them.”

For Russo, stepping into the club’s elite facilities was another pinch-me moment.

“This has surpassed my imagination,” Russo said.

“I’ve been here a few times right after it was built, but it’s better than any other facility in my opinion.

The two ovals, ice baths, recovery areas, it’s unreal.”

Now that the draft-day excitement has settled, Russo is ready to hit the ground running. 

“I just want to train. That’s where everything happens, where you get to know everyone the best,” Russo said.

When asked about mentors at the club, Russo didn’t hesitate to name one player she’s always admired.

“Bella Lewis has been someone I’ve always looked up to,” Russo said.

“She wears my favourite number (six), she’s one of my favourite players, and she’s such a leader as well. She’s probably someone I’ll go to when I need.”