Historic derby honour

Rising Fremantle Dockers star Katie-Jayne Grieve said she felt “extremely privileged” to play in Saturday’s inaugural AFLW Western Derby against West Coast at Optus Stadium.

And it is an experience the South Bunbury product is keen to replicate in future.

“When you run out and start to see the stadium fill up ... it was just surreal being there,” Grieve said. “I felt so privileged and I felt a lot of the other girls felt that way as well.

“The atmosphere definitely pumped everyone up. It was incredible and I would love to do it again one day.

“It definitely helped us get the win I reckon.”

Although a lot of focus was on AFLW Derby Medal recipient Kiara Bowers following the 9.6 (60) to 2.3 (15) win, it could be argued Grieve’s performance was equally impressive.

Laying an impressive 11 tackles and booting an early goal, the fearless 22-year-old generated excellent forward pressure, which has become a trademark of her game.

“We really focus on both our intensity and our tackling skills in order to pressure the ball carrier to get those turnovers,” she said.

“I feel a big focus of mine lately has been tackling — not overunning, watching (the hips) and just executing the tackle.”

With a full pre-season under her belt, Grieve has settled intolife at the club and enjoys working with both her teammates and coach Trent Cooper.

But another part of Grieve’s football life will always be South Bunbury, who gave her a start in senior football.

Maxwell Jetta’s Tigers were an almighty force last season in the SWFL women’s competition and Grieve is hopeful they can go back-to-back.

“I felt really happy for them,” she said.

“And I hope they get a back-to-back win. I am in touch with all of them still. They come up to the games, while Max and I also chat a fair bit as well.

“It is really good to be included in their success as well, even though I am on the other side of it now.

“Hopefully they can go back-to-back and I will be down there cheering them on this year.”

The Tigers faithful may also be able to see Grieve grace the turf once again at Hands Oval in May, should she be available for the Peel Thunderbirds against Swan Districts in their round three WAFLW clash.