“FOR Benny.”
Mia Austin’s comment on Carlton’s Instagram post summed it all up.
The best moment from the Blues’ elimination final win came right at the end of the third quarter where the home side produced some electrifying football.
The infectious energy of the preceding five goals in the third term turned to pure emotion on the siren, when Austin marked, goaled and immediately pointed to the heavens.
With ‘BEN’ written on her wrist tape, Austin was honouring her younger cousin, who passed away in a cricketing accident which brought about tributes from the whole sporting world.
The reaction of her teammates was immediate, with Austin - supported by teammate and mentor Tara Bohanna - speaking to Channel Seven post-match.
“Early last week, my little cousin Benny passed away unfortunately.
“My family’s here today - my uncle, my cousins. To honour him, I know if he was here he would absolutely love it.
“It was a little tribute to him.”
AFLW Senior Coach Mathew Buck lauded the temperament and bravery of his young key forward post-match.
“Obviously it’s an absolute tragedy - as a whole football club, we’ve got around her as best we can. It’s a credit to Mia.
“She took her opportunity with both hands and took her moment as well, which I was really proud to see.”
Vale, Ben.
