CAMBEWARRA'S Sophie Phillips will be out to prove she belongs among the best players in the country, when she pulls on the Eastern Allies guernsey at the upcoming 2019 NAB AFL Women's Under 18 Championships.
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The Bomaderry Tigers product was named in this side following her strong displays for the AFL NSW/ACT Rams in the opening round of the championships.
"To be named in this side it a massive achievement," Phillips said.
"It's such a honour because there are so many good girls out there that are just as deserving.
"I'm proud to be where I am with the hard work I have put in, as this is something I never thought I would achieve so soon."
Phillips is one of 24-players named in Steve Mahar's squad, which will battle Central Allies (July 8), Victoria Country (July 10) and Victoria Metro (July 12) at the Gold Coast.
"Playing in Queensland is going to be challenging with lots of high level footy," she said.
"But I know it's going to be a great overall experience to play some of the best girls in the country.
"In the same vein, it's going to be a huge honour to line up alongside the best players from NSW, ACT and Tasmania - our team has plenty of potential and I think we can go a long way in the tournament."
As much as Phillips would love to help her Eastern Allies team win a national title, the 17-year-old St John the Evangelist Catholic High School student also intends to use this tournament as a stepping stone to future honours.
"There will be talent scouts from the AFLW competition at nationals, so it's a great opportunity to gain exposure to more people but also learn more about the pathway into the league," she said.
"My end goal has always been to play in the ALFW."
This selection for Phillips follows in the footsteps of Nowra's Maddy Collier, who now plays for the West Coast Eagles.