As we enter our second season of the AFLW, and prepare for the 2023 AFLW season, we bring you our new series On the mark, presented by Bing Lee where we meet our AFLW team and find out what makes them tick.
Stay tuned to sydneyswans.com.au/aflw for all the latest interviews and AFLW news
Kiara Beesley is no stranger to elite sport and before her time in the AFLW she was a national representative in acrobatic gymnastics. It’s clear in her approach to setbacks which she says has developed her resilience.
Hailing from the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, the defender fostered a love for footy before she thought it could be a professional career. Now, the 21-year-old is more determined than ever for success in 2023.
At what point did you realise you could take your passion for AFL into a professional career?
“For me it was gradual. It started through a school gala day and then I went to nationals. It was more about my love for footy and progressed when the GWS Giants put me onto their train on and I was invited to the Combine. I had an article written on me about my results and that’s when it escalated. I joined the QBE Sydney Swans Academy after that, unfortunately I did my knee but got picked up the year after.”
Who do you credit for your success?
“A lot has to go to my parents. They’ve given me so many opportunities and they made sure anything that I wanted to pursue I always opportunity. In terms of coaches Nick Davis has been a big part of my journey. He was my coach in the Academy as well and helped me when I hurt my knee too. I wouldn’t be here without him.”
What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
“I’ve been injured a lot. I did an ACL and MCL in the second Academy game with the Swans, got picked up when I was injured and then unfortunately did it again at the start of this year.
"It can be slow, but I’ve learnt life is not fair and sometimes you get dealt a crap card. You have to be grateful for what you do have because I have great teammates and great facilities and great coaches around me – so looking at the positives but also knowing that sometimes you have to push through, knuckle down and get it done.”
Can you recall the most defining moment of your life so far?
“Getting signed would have to be up there and when we won National Championships in Acrobatics. But I’d have to pinpoint families and holidays as most important to me.”
If you weren’t playing AFL, what do you think you’d be doing?
“I’d probably still be doing acrobatic gymnastics. Very different but I started doing that well before AFL and transitioned across to football later.”
What are you most grateful for?
“My family and this club and the opportunities I have been given in terms of the facilities we have and the people around us. I think we take a lot for granted and we have a lot more to be grateful for than upset for.”
What is your most controversial opinion?
“I drink shower water. I think people say that’s really weird.”
Whether you’re preparing for training or a match, do you have any superstitions or things you must do beforehand?
“No, there’s nothing in particular.”
In your own opinion, what are your greatest strengths?
“My determination and drive to want to keep getting better. And probably my ability to be coached and learn.”
Who is your sports hero?
“I don’t know if I have one or if I should have one. I feel like I look at a lot of different people.”
This profile series is presented by Bing Lee.
The 2023 AFLW Season will commence on the first weekend of September with the full fixture now confirmed.
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The 2023 AFLW fixture is locked in, and we return to North Sydney Oval for a blockbuster Sydney Derby on Sunday, 3 September! Sign up to become a 2023 AFLW member TODAY!
