“It’s an opportunity that you really get once in your life - I think it’s important to take it.”
Hailing from Moree, 640 kilometres northwest of Sydney, Lauren Appleby and her father Daniel admit that opportunity for elite sport is rare in regional NSW. So, when playing with the QBE Sydney Swans Academy became possible, she grasped it with both hands.
Lauren travels over seven hours fortnightly to attend training at Sydney Swans HQ. At home, she practices her kicking on a field mowed into the back lawn.
“I marked some lines, so she had an idea of how far out she was.”
Lauren admits that with the help of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy her skills on the field have improved drastically. Off the field, she’s learned independence and developed her social skills.
“What I love most about the Academy is the experience. Not only do I get to play the sport I love, but I get to meet new people and be in a different environment,” Lauren added.
Daniel echoed this notion, praising the people involved in the Academy’s Top End program.
“The staff involved have been really good. It’s a hell of an experience for someone coming from a small town like Moree to be able to have that level of coaching.”
At the time of this interview Lauren had finished one of her final HSC examinations – and the commitment to juggling study, travel, and sport stands as a testament to Lauren and her family’s dedication.
While Lauren is unsure what the future holds, she continues to make the long trip to Sydney in the pursuit of professional sport.
This interview was featured in the 2024 Sydney Swans Foundation Impact Report. Read more here.
Should you like to show your support for the Academy via the Sydney Swans Foundation, we encourage you to donate today.
