WAFLW: Focus on Subiaco unlocks Dodd’s State bert

One of Subiaco’s brightest young talents says a focus on controlling what’s in her power has helped her become a better footballer.

Madison Dodd has gone from strength to strength over the past 18 months, and was rewarded with a state call up towards the beginning of the year, with the second half of the AFLW National Championships beginning on August 13.

It comes after she was overlooked for last year’s carnival.

Dodd said a mindset shift helped her get to the next level.

“After I didn’t get selected, I thought it was a good chance to build as much of a relationship with the girls,” she said.

“I spoke with Farms about what I should do, and he talked about my composure and decision making.

“I wanted to put everything into WAFLW footy, and I thought if I can have a good season, and prove to them I’m worthy, then I might get a call up.”

That call came in round three this year where Dodd, along with two other Lions in Eva Poposky and Charlotte Newland, were informed they would be training with the State team.

Added following their impressive State under 16s campaigns were Olivia Crane and Olivia Wolmarans, bringing the total to five.

Dodd said it’s been great seeing some familiar faces.

“In previous years, there haven’t been many representatives from the club,” she said.

“Now having Newy, Eva, Craney and Wooly, it has felt good to have the Subi representation there.”

The AFLW Championships got underway back in April, with WA taking the loss to South Australia, before a hiatus.

Last Sunday’s clash between the State 18s and the WACFL All-Stars at Optus Stadium was a practice match in the lead up to the rest of the carnival.

Despite being a defender in the WAFLW, Dodd spent the first half playing as an inside midfielder, and was involved in setting up a couple of majors throughout.

She said she’s being used more as a utility.

“We were trying out different roles and trying out the younger ones coming through in different places,” Dodd said.

“I think they were playing to my strengths and wanted someone who’s willing to put in the defensive work at the stoppage while others hunt the ball.”

One who impressed in particular during the match as well was Wolmarans, who looked dangerous up forward with a goal and showed her athleticism in the ruck.

With two games to go against the Allies and Victoria Country, Dodd said it’s all about taking in as much information as possible.

The Warwick-Greenwood product said the resources available will help shape her into a better footballer for the Lions.

“I want to show my best footy if I can and get the most out of training and the coaches at that level,” Dodd said.

“If I don’t end up making it, I can bring all of that back to Subi and strengthen the team.

“If I can show what I’ve got and it doesn’t end up working out, then I’m still happy with that and I can build on that back at Subi.”