28 March 2024
When three soldiers from the 9th Force Support Battalion joined the Army, they never imagined they could continue playing football at work or be selected for the Army National Football team.
Privates Bonnie Farrell, Ruby Slater and Sophie Elias are all friends who work in the logistics battalion and together decided to sign up to join the national team.
The Women’s Australian Army Aussie Rules Football team compete against Air Force and Navy for title championships at the Australian Aussie Rules National Carnival.
The game has been played around the globe by service men and women as a means of recreation and friendly rivalry.
Private Farrell, who plays forward position with the Army Aussie Rules team, said when it came to selection, she just got lucky.
“I wasn’t sure I was going to make it in; selection for the national team is pretty competitive,” Private Farrell said.
“But I had the right sergeant who believed in me and was willing to support me through the process to join.
“Now I’m part of the team, I get to travel and meet a community of people from all services.
“It’s a pretty good gig.”
Privates Farrell and Slater grew up in Scottsdale, Tasmania, and have played the game since they were young kids.
“We’ve played together for a long time – there were no female teams when we were younger so we grew up playing with the boys,” Private Farrell said.
“We were excited to play in the same team again, especially since we’re also in the same unit.
“I think it's pretty cool that Army has given us this opportunity to play as a team.”
The women’s Army Aussie Rules team won their first game against the Air Force National team on March 19.
