Carlton recruits Lauren Arnell and Darcy Vescio are determined to cap off their stellar seasons in style in Sunday’s VFL Women’s Grand Final.
Arnell and Vescio, who recently joined the Blues’ inaugural women’s team as a priority selection and marquee player respectively, will represent the Darebin Falcons when they take on Melbourne University at Piranha Park.
Should the duo prevail on Sunday, it will mark the 12th first-division title between them in Darebin colours, ending a week where they were named in the VFL Women’s Team of the Year alongside new Carlton teammate Bri Davey (St Kilda Sharks).
Vescio said it would be surreal to lift the VFL trophy for the fourth time as a Falcon.
“This whole season has been such a rollercoaster with AFL games and rep games,” Vescio said.
“To come together at club footy again and hopefully get the win would be amazing – a really significant achievement for the girls.”
Darcy Vescio has booted 45 goals for the Darebin Falcons this season. (Photo: Darebin Falcons)
Despite the Falcons heading in as strong favourites on the back of an undefeated season, Arnell said she was expecting a fierce contest.
“It’ll be pretty tough,” Arnell said.
“Anyone who comes to watch will see a brutal brand of footy and certainly some skillful footy.”
A large crowd is expected on Sunday, with supporters from competing AFL women’s clubs granted the opportunity to watch some of their new signings up close.
Arnell said she was excited to be one of Carlton’s representatives on display.
“It’s more than an honour to be branded as a role model for these girls, particularly young Carlton supporters. It would be wonderful to see them out there in their Blues jumpers on Sunday watching Darcy and I run around,” she said.
“It’s really special, because I know when I was growing up I didn’t have an AFL female player to look up to.”
Sunday’s grand final marks Arnell and Vescio’s final commitment before joining their future Carlton teammates for pre-season training in late November.
The AFL Women’s Draft will be held on October 12 in Melbourne, while next year’s fixture is yet to be announced.
VFL WOMEN’S GRAND FINAL DETAILS:
Darebin Falcons v Melbourne University
2:30pm, 18 September, 2016
Piranha Park (Coburg City Oval), Harding St, Coburg
Admission: $15 adults, $10 concession, kids under 12 free
