Strathmore's Eloise Egglestone has been voted the Fernwood Fitness Women's Player of the Month for April after a standout start to life as captain in Airport Toyota Premier Division.
Egglestone claimed 37 per cent of the online vote to take the award in a hotly contested poll.
The 26-year-old returned to Strathmore this season, stepping straight into the captaincy after a stint in the VFLW with Williamstown, and being voted best on ground in the first five rounds of the season with the Griff sitting three and two on the ladder.
Her influence extends well beyond her performances on the field. Arriving at a club with ambitions of cementing itself in Premier Division, Egglestone is leading from the front, setting new standards around training and accountability, and earning the trust of a squad that is one of the youngest in the competition.
Strathmore senior coach Shaun Bannister has been full of praise for his skipper.
"El leads by example on the ground,” Bannister said.
"She's vocal and has this incredible will to not give in. She's got the mental capacity of no one I've ever met.”
Bannister praised Egglestone's physical qualities too, revealing she was the only player to beat him in pre-season time trials.
"El is so professional in everything she does and just gives so much back to the club. It's not about her. She just puts everyone else first and that's the captain I wanted.”
As part of the award, Egglestone wins a customised training plan and a month's free membership to Fernwood Fitness.
Speaking after receiving the award, Egglestone said the recognition meant a great deal, particularly given the group around her.
"We're three and two at the moment, which I think is incredible from a very, very young group of girls. I'm 26 and I'm the oldest in the team. To be voted captain after not being around for a couple of years was just such an honour and a privilege.”
On her leadership style she said, "I think I always just want the best for myself and the people around me, and whatever I can do to achieve that, I'll try to do.”
"We had a bit of a rough loss on the weekend but it's about making sure we bounce back and stay resilient. We want to continue to put the wins on the board, hopefully make finals, and just continue to grow. Whatever growth can come from this year is going to be beneficial.
"I’m excited to lead these girls and develop them and see what the season can be made of."
This May, in the lead-up to Mother’s Day, Fernwood Fitness is proud to launch its next club membership offer.
For just $50, you can access 30 days of training at Fernwood Fitness - with 100 per cent of funds going directly back to your nominated EDFL club.
What’s included in your 30 days:
- Gym access
- A personalised fitness coaching session
- Sauna & massage chair access
- 3 x FIIT30 sessions
- 1 x Reformer Pilates session
(Offerings may vary by club)
Train strong. Give back. Be part of your community.
