The Community Voice, Go Nagambie | Wednesday October 4th 2023, Issue 534

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04 OCTOBER 2023 | ISSUE 534 | FREE

GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES

NICOLE'S LIVING THE DREAM

The Goulburn Murray V/Line Girls Squad is a talented group of girls who are selected to represent their region in Australian Rules Football. It's an opportunity for young female players to showcase their skills and compete at a higher level. Ev15 15 year old Nicole Hughes from Nagambie has been included in the squad with her hard work and determination paying dividends. Her love for footy has been a part of her life since she was a young girl. Nicole's footy journey has been truly remarkable, especially considering that this is only her first season playing. Nicole’s coach, Waldo, recognized her natural talent when he watched her playing for Tabilk U16 one Sunday at the Nagambie Recreation Reserve. “It's incredible to see how far Nicole has come in such a short space of time. “She has a natural talent and a deep connection to the game, and she is also the only player ever to have been selected from this area to join V/Line,” said Goulburn Murray coach Waldo. Nicole’s mother Sinead said her daughter’s achievement in joining the Goulburn Murray V/Line Girls Squad was amazing and was appreciative of all the local support she had received. “Bo Harrison, Nicole's coach at Tabilk Footy Club, has been an invaluable asset to her footy journey. “His guidance and expertise has helped Nicole grow as a player and reach new heights in her skills. With Bo's support, Nicole was put on the right track to achieve great things in her football journey,” said Sinead. Growing up, Nicole loved watching football on television with her family and playing football with her friends in the local park.

easy one. She faced numerous challenges along the way, but she never let anything deter her from pursuing her dream.

On many occasions, Nicole's father, Patrick, took on the role of taxi, bank, and autograph collector, all while carrying her bag.

“Nicole attended training sessions, worked on improving her fitness, and sought guidance from coaches and mentors who believed in her potential,” said Sinead.

“Dad’s dedication to bringing me to footy games, regardless of the cold and wet weather was amazing,” said Nicole.

“When Nicole received the news that she had made the squad, it was a moment of pure joy and excitement and tears of joy.

Mr and Mrs Hughes would patiently wait for hours, braving the elements just so Nicole could be the first through the gate. Nicole is a strong supporter of North Melbourne Football Club and possibly Jy Simpkin's biggest fan.

“She was now part of a talented group of girls who shared her love for footy and were equally passionate about the game.

Nicole's road to the Goulburn Murray V/Line Girls Squad was not an

“Being selected for the squad has not only validated her skills but also provided her with an opportunity to learn and grow as a player,” said Sinead.

“We couldn't be prouder of Nicole and her achievements. Her hard work, dedication, and love for footy have brought her to this incredible milestone,” added Mr Hughes. Nicole's love for footy extends beyond the field as she continues to seek ways to improve her game by analising game footage. The Community Voice asked Nicole what she loves most about the game. Nicole laughed replying, “It's just a party trick I keep up my sleeves.” Nicole’s dedication, smile and enthusiasm are infectious, and she is an inspiration to all aspiring young players who dream of making it to the big leagues. Congratulations Nicole!


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