HEADING into her fourth Super W campaign with the Brumbies, Harriet Elleman admits her side has a sense of unfinished business to deal with.
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The abrupt end to the 2020 season due to COVID-19 robbed the Bomaderry product's side of semi-final showdown with Queensland.
As disappointing as that was, Elleman and her ACT side have been using it as motivation during the pre-season.
"We were all disappointed to not have a chance to shine in finals footy last season," Elleman said.
"It's given us all that extra fire in the belly, as I know we can go all the way this year and finish on top."
Differently from her previous three campaigns, the 2021 season will be a condensed three-week competition - kicking off this Saturday at Queanbeyan's Seiffert Oval against the Melbourne Rebels.
"Preparation for this season has been awesome," the Nowra High School alumna said.
"Being a part of the Brumbies Academy this year has really ramped up the core skills I needed and I have had the luck of training alongside these girls for months.
"I feel a connection within the squad and so ready to show the Super W what the Brumbies have to bring to this year's competition.
"We have been training four days a week, with back-to-back sessions and gym on top, so it has been full-on with full-time work and part-time study.
"There's nothing I am not prepared for and I have really enjoyed the sessions with the coaching staff.
"As a group, I believe we are better prepared than ever, with injury management, an amazing coaching and management staff and support from our sponsors - we are fit, fast and ready to play."
The 27-year-old's hard work during the pre-season didn't go unnoticed by the club's staff and playing group, as Elleman was recently named as vice-captain.
"I am extremely honoured to be selected as vice-captain this year, so I plan to lead from the front and bring positivity and support to my team players throughout this season," the 10 Super W capped player said.
Following Saturday's season opener, the Brumbies will take on the President's XV on June 27 and reigning premiers NSW on June 30 - both at Coffs Harbour's C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The grand final will be played on July 3.
"Our team goals are to take this competition out in Coffs Harbour and stick it to the big states," she said.
"Individually, I would love to run on the field in the first 15 and be a constant positive player and dominant in my set-piece."
Elleman, who has been named to start at hooker, and her Brumbies will kick-off their fixture against the Rebels at 3pm Saturday.
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