Sabrina Frederick-Traub, AFLW player

Club: Brisbane Lions

Position: Full forward/ruckman

Age: 20

Lives: Hawthorne, Qld

Studying: Sports psychology at Murdoch University

How did you start playing AFL?

I was born in England but moved to a country town called Pinjarra, about an hour from Perth, at age seven. I had no idea what AFL was when I moved to Australia – at first I thought it was rugby! At my new school I saw the kids playing AFL at recess and lunch religiously. I decided to give it a go – otherwise I would’ve been sitting on my own at recess and lunch. I kept playing because I actually really enjoyed it and started to make friends with the boys, which made me feel more comfortable at school. A few years later, in grade 6, the school AFL coach told me I had to trial for the school team. I made the school team – the first ever girl. The same year, I joined the local team where my boy friends all played.”

What do you love most about the game?

I love the physicality and all-rounder-sport nature of it. I also love the culture and people it can bring together.

How are you feeling about the new AFL Women’s league? 

It’s all very fresh and new, and it has an unknown feel to it, which is thrilling! 

What would you say to a woman toying with the idea of joining an AFL team?

It’s so much fun, you gain a whole new family while playing a challenging sport. Honestly, I think it’s the best game in the world, as a whole package. The atmosphere that comes with it and the people it brings together are like nothing else.

What are some things most people don’t know about you?

I have an afro and it can take me up to six hours to braid my hair. I’ve been to nine countries. My friends call me ‘Brown Bear’ (because I look very scary like a wild bear and then when you get to know me I’m like a teddy bear). And I’m obsessed with sneakers. 

Favourite fuel/recovery meal? 

Vegetable spaghetti Bolognese. 

Do you play any other sports?

I played soccer up until this year. I still play a bit of soccer and basketball in relaxed environments.

Discover what the Women’s Health initiative WinS is and how you can get involved here. 

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