BENDIGO “code-hopping” footballers Kerryn Harrington and Eliza Hynes will both make their AFLW debuts in Friday night’s season-opening clash between Carlton and Collingwood.
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Harrington has been selected in Carlton’s team, while Hynes will line up for the Magpies at IKON Park.
Former Bendigo Spirit point guard Harrington – who grew up a Carlton supporter – was named at centre half-forward for the Blues.
“It’s going to be awesome out there on Friday night,” Harrington said.
“Watching the first game from the stands last year, I was inspired by what was happening in front of me and it was that moment that I decided to have a dip at it.”
Hynes has switched to football following a stellar volleyball career in which she represented Australia in both indoor and beach.
The 26-year-old, who has been earmarked for a role in the ruck, has been named on the interchange.
“In total it will be just my fifth game of football if I do run out on Friday night,” Hynes told the Bendigo Advertiser earlier in the week before the release of the round one teams.
“Stripping it right back and saying I have no expectations is a good way of looking at it. I don’t know what my best is, and nor does anyone else.
“If I do run out on Friday night my sole intention is just to give it a red-hot crack and aim to keep improving.”
Among Hynes’ team-mates is former Bendigo Thunder captain Emma Grant, who is lining up for her second AFLW season with the Magpies.