An emerging talent from the heart of Victoria's football breeding ground is making a compelling case for selection in the upcoming AFLW draft. Stella Huxtable, a dynamic midfielder from the renowned Geelong Falcons program, is not just waiting for her chance – she's actively reshaping her game to seize it.
From Midfield Engine to Forward Threat
While her roots are firmly in the midfield, Huxtable has spent the recent season strategically developing a new string to her bow. Coaches at the Geelong Falcons have deployed her in the forward line, a move designed to showcase her versatility and goal-scoring prowess to recruiters. This tactical shift highlights her adaptability and team-first attitude, traits highly prized at the elite level.
"I've been playing a bit more forward this year which has been really good," Huxtable explained. The experience has given her a fresh perspective on the game, allowing her to apply her midfield vision and clean skills closer to goal. This evolution from a pure on-baller to a midfielder-forward hybrid makes her a more attractive and flexible prospect for AFLW clubs looking to fill multiple roles with one list spot.
Inspiration Drawn from the Greats
Huxtable's football journey has been inspired by watching some of the game's modern legends. She cites Geelong Cats superstar Patrick Dangerfield as a key influence, admiring his explosive power and game-breaking ability. In the women's arena, she looks up to Monique Conti, the Richmond and Western Bulldogs star known for her elite agility, clean hands, and evasive skills.
"I love watching Monique Conti play," Huxtable said, noting how Conti's style of play offers a blueprint for combining midfield grunt with forward-line creativity. Drawing inspiration from these role models, Huxtable has worked diligently on adding a penetrating kick and scoreboard impact to her already well-regarded contested work and endurance.
The Draft Dream and Geelong Falcons Legacy
The AFLW draft represents the culmination of years of hard work in the Talent League pathway. The Geelong Falcons have a storied history of producing AFL and AFLW talent, and Huxtable is poised to be the next in that proud lineage. The draft process is a nerve-wracking but exciting time for any young athlete, filled with interviews, fitness testing, and the ultimate wait for a name to be called.
For Huxtable, the focus remains on controlling what she can. Her performances for the Falcons, combined with her demonstrated willingness to learn a new position and her clear athletic base, have put her firmly in the draft frame. Whether she hears her name called or begins her journey via a rookie listing, her development this season has significantly bolstered her credentials.
The future is bright for this Geelong local. With a refined skill set, proven versatility, and the right role models lighting her path, Stella Huxtable stands ready to make the leap from Falcons standout to AFLW footballer.
