Fremantle Dockers have secured a passionate and dedicated talent in the AFLW draft, selecting self-described "footy nuffy" Monique Bessen with pick 40. The South Australian star's lifelong dream of playing at the highest level has now become a reality.
A lifelong passion for the game
Monique Bessen's love for Australian rules football began early. She first took up the sport as a nine-year-old and her passion never wavered. Growing up in the Adelaide Hills, her commitment was so strong she often had to travel to find a team to play for.
Bessen played more than 50 junior games for Mitcham, frequently competing in older age groups due to her skill level. Her rapid progression saw her debut in senior football for Hahndorf at just 15 years of age, before swiftly advancing to the SANFLW competition. She made her SANFLW debut only one week after her 16th birthday.
"I'm a bit of a footy nuffy," Bessen admitted. "I love watching both the AFL and AFLW. I watch most games. Whenever Saturday or Sunday rolls around, I sit on the couch and try to watch as many games as I can."
Her fandom extended beyond just watching; she grew up collecting footy cards and immersing herself in the sport. While she also played soccer, volleyball, and tennis as a youngster, Australian rules football always stood out as her clear favourite.
Modelling her game on greats
As a Geelong supporter, Bessen has drawn inspiration from some of the game's best. She has actively modelled aspects of her playing style on Joel Selwood, Patrick Dangerfield, and Georgie Prespakis. This study of elite players, combined with her natural skill, high football intelligence, and versatility to play in multiple positions, made her a standout prospect in South Australia.
Bessen believes her early exposure to senior football at both suburban and SANFLW levels was crucial in fast-tracking her development. "Playing that level of football from such a young age has really helped my development," she explained.
"Playing against bigger bodies really teaches you how to become a smarter player when, physically, you are not the best out there. You need to find that edge somewhere else and for me that has come through my footy IQ and my skills."
A welcome shock to senior football
Reflecting on her first SANFLW season with Sturt, Bessen expressed immense gratitude for the club's role in her journey. She was initially given a more protected role on a wing or at half-forward before being thrust into the midfield.
"I was lucky enough to be given some inside minutes towards the end of my first season. That was a bit of a shock and welcome to senior football," Bessen said.
She recalled a formative moment lining up on Jess Bates, an incredible SANFLW player and league best-and-fairest winner. "Playing against her was a real shock but it teaches you how to be smarter," Bessen noted, highlighting the steep learning curve that prepared her for the AFLW.
Bessen will join fellow new Dockers Charli Hazelhurst, another South Australian, and Tasmanian Mia Anderson at Fremantle. Her journey from a dedicated young fan in the hills to an AFLW draftee is a testament to her skill, determination, and undeniable love for the game.
