As we enter our second season of the AFLW, and kick off 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.
Laura Gardiner is no stranger to the AFLW stage having played three seasons for the Geelong Cats. But when she was offered a contract with the Sydney Swans early this year she jumped at the opportunity for a change.
After all she says her most poignant life lesson is taking risks. Something she certainly has been rewarded for early in the season, notching a career high 19 disposals and 13 tackles against GWS in Round 1.
Now, Gardiner is set to face her old club in Round 2 this Saturday. Here she discusses what led her to the Sydney Swans.
At what point did you realise you could take your passion for AFL into a professional career?
“I started playing around 14 when the sport was becoming more popular. My mum got me into it. I played my first two years locally I thought maybe there was a pathway. It was the time it was getting formed and there was an AFLW competition that was growing. I thought, ‘This is something I want to explore.’"
Who do you credit for your success?
“Definitely mum and dad. Mum more so because she got me into footy but dad helped me with learning the game and helped me with skills outside the training I had.”
What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
“I wouldn’t say the hard way, but that you have to take risks to get a reward for it. Things don’t always go your way and you might have to do things that are a bit riskier.”
Can you recall the most defining moment of your life so far?
“Probably my move to Sydney from a footy and lifestyle perspective. It’s been a big change but it’s developing me as a person. I’m really excited for what’s to come.”
If you weren’t playing AFL, what do you think you’d be doing?
“I’d definitely being playing a sport whether that would be team or solo sport. Career-wise I would be studying nursing. That’s something I’ve always wanted to do which has been difficult with footy.”
What are you most grateful for?
“I’m grateful for my parents and family for supporting me in everything and always wanting the best for me. I’m also grateful for the club as well and everything that’s happening right now.”
What is your most controversial opinion?
“I’d say that coffee is not good (laughs). I don’t like coffee.”
Whether you’re preparing for training or a match, do you have any superstitions or things you must do beforehand?
“I don’t really. I’m not too stuck on I have to do this or that. But having a routine where I do a proper warm up and get everything done. I have to arrive early to make sure I have time to do that.”
In your own opinion, what are your greatest strengths?
“On the field I’d say I always give 100 percent and that can be a strength because I’m always willing to get better and give it my all. Physically I’m a good runner and I can get in good positions to get the ball.
“Off the field I feel I’m a good friend and trustworthy person. People can come chat to me, I’m an open person and approachable.”
Who is your sports hero?
“I wouldn’t say I have a sports hero, but I do love watching women’s sports whether that’s tennis, netball, footy. It’s so inspiring to see.”
This profile series is presented by Bing Lee.
Be there to cheer on our women’s team when they take on Geelong in Round 2 this Saturday, September 9, at North Sydney Oval. Tickets start form $10 for adults, and those under 18 can redeem a free ticket from Ticketmaster. Get your tickets today.
