CARLTON AFLW skipper Bri Davey says there has been a huge jump in talent and quality across the AFLW since its inception.

Speaking with Andy Maher on SEN Afternoons, the 23-year-old said the high standard of facilities and coaches at Carlton would help the Blues reach new bounds. 

“You go back to the first year and most of the girls coming through into the first season had never sort of had a taste of an elite environment. Going into the gym a few times a week and being on the track and running those conditioning sessions and those really intense efforts – they probably weren’t as used to it,” she said. 

“Their bodies probably reacted poorly in that first season just because they were getting smashed with what they weren’t used to. From that aspect we’ve seen massive improvements. Girls’ bodies are getting used to it. 

“In terms of an elite mindset, that’s come along over the last few years. We’re seeing a big difference on field. I think in the first year, girls were averaging seven kilometres and that bumped up to around 11.” 

The former Matildas goalkeeper said elite conditions at Carlton had allowed greater development within the team.

Davey said it was the “small things” that made a difference for women in the league.

“If you get the small things right, the girls will be happy,” she said.

"For us it’s about having quality facilities, quality changerooms, the ice baths, the recovery things: all of the things like that, Carlton have really nailed.”

According to Davey, another aspect of an elite sports environment was its coaching staff. With Daniel Harford taking the reins this year, the 2017 best and fairest winner said the coach brought the right mix of work and fun to the group.  

“He brings this amazing balance of being able to lighten the mood and when he wants to be serious he just gets to business. Not many people can nail that, but he does. I really love learning off him and I know the girls have as well," she said.

“He’s a fresh face and he’s got a fresh direction with where he wants to take the group and what he wants to do.

“It’s a really good vibe around the group. And that’s part to do with him as well, coming in and driving that and those elite standards and wanting us to be better.”