NSW/ACT women’s state team revealed ahead of huge test in Adelaide

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 9: Talia Radan (L) and Lael Kassem (R) of the Giants shake hands at fulltime during the 2016 AFL Round 03 match between the Sydney Swans and the GWS Giants at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney on April 9, 2016. (Photo by Matt King/AFL Media)

The NSW/ACT open women’s state team that will take on South Australia on June 5 at Adelaide Oval has been announced.

The talented list was selected from the recent Academy series that culminated in the first ever women’s AFL match at the SCG between the Sydney Swans and GWS GIANTS.

The match against South Australia’s top players will also act as a curtain raiser to the Round 11 AFL game between Adelaide and St Kilda.

While bragging rights will be up for grabs an impressive individual performance could result in higher honours.

The best female footy players from around the country will be selected for a representative game between the Melbourne Demons and the Western Bulldogs on September 3.

The inaugural women’s AFL competition begins next year and talent scouts will be keeping a close eye on the upcoming women’s contests.

It’s a huge opportunity for the girls involved but one of the ACT’s rising stars is a little more excited than most.

Talia Radan grew up in Adelaide and can’t hide her passion for the Adelaide Crows.

“I watched footy religiously when I was in Adelaide and I’m a Crows fanatic,” Radan said.

“I’ve been an Adelaide Crows member since I was about 6 years old.

“Playing at the revamped Adelaide Oval will be unbelievable and given my Adelaide connection it’s fair to say I’m pretty pumped.”

Radan studied law before taking a position as a government policy advisor in Canberra.

The 27-year-old played netball in Adelaide but took the opportunity to play for the Belconnen Magpies after making the move to the nation’s capital.

“I played Auskick when I was younger but netball was my main sport.

“I’ve watched a lot of footy which made the transition pretty easy because I can read the play and stay one kick ahead.

“Tex (Taylor Walker) is a player I look up to, I admire his leadership on game day and high skill level.”

Click here for the NSW/ACT open women’s team that will play against South Australia on June 5.