Q&A WITH WAFLW CAPTAIN LAUREN VECCHIO

With Round 1 this Sunday, we got Captain Lauren Vecchio to answer a few questions.

Question #1: After being injured for a big chunk of 2021, how much more determined does that make you for 2022?

Lauren’s Answer: I am beyond determined to get back and perform at my best, but I am even more excited to get out there and enjoy some footy with the girls.

Question #2: How have you found the Pre-Season? Do you think the standard has been raised even more for this year?

Lauren’s Answer: It’s been the most challenging pre-season since being at the club and I say that in a positive way.

I believe it comes down to the higher expectations and standards set by Craig (Head Coach) and the strength and conditioning team.

We had Simon join as Head Strength and Conditioning Coach this year and he has dedicated a lot of time and effort to our program.

The improvement from week one to now is outstanding and it is a massive credit to Simon and our girls for putting in the hard yards over pre-season.

Question #3: New coach this year, what are some of the things that you have noticed about the way Craig coaches?

Lauren’s Answer: There are no surprises with Craig, he is always upfront and honest about the standards and expectations that are required from us as a playing group.

He is all about the “WHY” and reasoning around our drills and training, to which I feel the girls respond positively too.

He is very patient, positive and will always give each player the required time when providing honest feedback. All in all, he is tough, fair but always cool as a cucumber.

Question #4: Which player are you watching out for this season? Who do you think our fans should keep their eyes on?

Lauren’s Answer: This is a tough question as I believe we are lucky to have a wide range of talent in our squad this season.

If I had to pick, I would say Lauren Wakfer. Lauren’s main position is ruck, but she is an agile and versatile player too and stands out in my eyes. She has a very promising future in women’s football.



Question #5: The leadership team, like last year, is a really strong group. How do you think they will push the squad this season?

Lauren’s Answer: We are very fortunate to have a supportive leadership group in Tilly, Lucy and Pia. They set high standards in the way they train and always bring a positive attitude wherever they go.

With us leading by example, we hope that will have a positive effect on the playing group as a whole.

Question #6: As a long time Souths player and also supporter, how much will it mean to you to be part of the first-ever WAFLW League win?

Lauren’s Answer: Would mean a lot, especially to be part of that moment in history.

I know the girls and I would love to sing the club song loud and proud after all the hard work we have put in over the last couple of seasons.

To answer the question simply, it would mean EVERYTHING.