Kiara Bowers has once again emerged on top in the 2km time trial, as Fremantle’s AFLW team returned to training in preparation for the 2023 season.
Bowers gut-running remains one of the star midfielder’s impressive traits. The 2021 AFLW Fairest and Best winner and four-time All Australian looks to again be at peak fitness heading into her eighth season on Freo’s list.
Bowers’ efforts didn’t overshadow the efforts of Airlie Runnalls, with the winger shaving 30 seconds off her personal best to finish second.
Forward Gabby O’Sullivan placed third ahead of defender / midfielder Phil Seth and forward Mikayla Hyde in fifth.
Senior Coach Lisa Webb praised Bowers for her consistently high performances on the track.
“Turbo was really impressive. She’s been consistent for such a long period of time, which is obviously a real strength of hers,” Webb said.
“She’s always able to train and cover the ground really well, it’s very impressive.”
Webb said the coaches and strength and conditioning team would work with the 31-year-old to ensure she peaks at the right time.
“There are things we’re going to work on with Turbo to continue to develop her game,” Webb said.
“Good luck trying to keep her off the track, but there are ways we can try and change her program slightly to keep her going for as long as we can.”
Webb said Runnalls’ run was the result of her diligence in the off-season.
“Airlie’s done a strong PB, and that’s a result of a big off-season from her. I’m excited to see what she can produce going forward,” Webb said.
“Last week, she made what I thought was the fatal mistake of doing a running session with Turbo, and it ended up being a real win for her. It’s given her a lot of confidence in the work she’s done.”
Webb said the Club has high expectations of their selections at the 2023 AFLW Supplementary Draft in Tahleah Mulder, Emmelie Fiedler, Jae Flynn and Joanne Cregg, who have had just under two months to prepare for the commencement of pre-season.
“Joanne Cregg finished behind Mikki Hyde, which is really pleasing,” Webb said.
“She’s consistent, she can cover the ground really well but she’s also a really level head.
“She’s produced a good time, which we know obviously has outcomes.
“All of our new players have formed those connections with players, getting down to our academy sessions and really pushing themselves.”
