Ever since Sarah Sansonetti started her football journey at Auskick a decade ago, playing the game at the highest level is something she has "always dreamed of".
On Tuesday, her dream beckoned, as she was being chosen by Richmond with pick 40 in the NAB AFL Women’s Draft, the club’s fourth selection.
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"It was a rush of adrenaline. I was so happy, so proud, that Richmond called out my name," she said.
"To join Richmond, a pretty renowned, successful club…I’m excited to jump into next year."
"I was just pretty happy that a club called out my name, and I’m even happier that it was Richmond."
The 18-year-old found her way to Tigerland following three years in the NAB League Girls developing her craft, followed by a stint with Darebin VFLW.
It’s been a huge year for the Northern Knights half-back. She shone in the NAB League Girls Grand Final as the Knights claimed the premiership, before being named at centre half-back in the League’s Team of the Year.
She was also a consistent performer for the undefeated, premiership-winning Vic Metro side in this year’s Under-18 National Championships.
"(Playing big games) gives you the confidence that you can back yourself and you can go up against quality opposition…to know you can really do it," she said.
The hard-working 18-year-old is a reliable, team-oriented competitor. She tested well at the NAB AFLW Draft Combine last month, further pressing her claims for an AFLW contract.
Richmond Women's recruiter Lauren Tesoriero said she was impressed by Sansonetti’s football smarts and determination.
"Sarah reads the play really well. She’s quite a crafty back. She’s not quite a key or small, she’s sort of in-between," Tesoriero said.
"Her ability to read the play is what stood out the most and we’d love to see her across half-back for us."
Sansonetti cannot wait to reunite with fellow Tiger Maddy Brancatisano, the pair having played at the Northern Knights together in recent years.
"It’ll be pretty fun to run out with her again," Sansonetti said.
