South Warrnambool's Annie Blackburn is champing at the bit to play again

Travel and the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic have contributed to the 24-year-old's absence from the Hampden league.

The talented goal shooter spent 18 months based in London and travelling Europe before returning home to Australia and signing with the Roosters for season 2020.

Unfortunately for the former North Warrnambool Eagle the coronavirus pandemic brought an end to the season before she could play a game for her new club.

"I was looking forward to playing and it all went pear-shaped," Blackburn said.

"I've really been looking forward to playing this year. We have got a few good young players and a few new players so it should be a good season."

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly episode The Booletin and Beyond:

READ MORE:

The Honey Pot Child Care Centre employee, who is studying at South West TAFE, said her desire to play the sport hadn't waned.

"I really enjoy being part of a team and missed that when I wasn't playing sport," she said.

"When I was overseas and last year I wasn't playing any sport and I missed that team unity being part of a team, coming to training and playing every week."

Blackburn is enjoying life at her new club after spending more than 10 years progressing through the junior ranks and into the senior grades with the Eagles.

"The girls are so lovely and welcoming and even though I didn't play last year I've become good friends with some of the girls. It's been really good," she said.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:

"My boyfriend (Brayden Beks) plays there. (Coach) Leesa (Battistello) is also good. Her and (division one coach) Gill (Herrmann) have been so welcoming and positive.

"Leesa is amazing. As a person she has made me feel welcome. As coach, even though she hasn't coached me in a game yet, it's been nice to have a fresh set of eyes and Leesa has taught me so much in short amount of time.

"She is really about communicating and honesty and she loves team unity and wants to have South as one unit. I like her positivity and she is very motivating. It's good to have her as a coach."

South Warrnambool's first game of the season is against reigning premiers Koroit on Good Friday.

READ MORE:

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.