Each time any GIANT pulls on the orange and charcoal, they’re doing so with an intent to inspire the next generation of both AFL and AFLW players.
For Jasmine Grierson, her inspiration is driven by her 10-month-old niece Billie.
Billie is the daughter of her older sister, one of the three Grierson siblings.
The GIANTS defender said being a role model for her niece is one of her proudest moments in her career to date.
“She is too young to know what it all is at the moment, but I love that when she grows up, she will have the option to play AFL at the highest level and will know no different,” Grierson said.
“I want her to chase her dreams no matter what they are.”
The other notable moment to date was the night she got drafted.
Grierson was taken in the inaugural draft at pick 136 by the Melbourne Demons.
She played two seasons with the Demons before moving to the North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos, where she spent the next three seasons.
Grierson moved to the GIANTS ahead of the 2022 season, having played 32 games in Victoria’s footy heartland.
“In Melbourne you’re in a bit of a footy bubble but I love everything that Sydney has to offer,” said the regular eastern suburbs beachgoer.
“From the footy side of things, I think the biggest difference is the exposure of AFL in NSW, it’s obviously a super competitive market but there is such an emphasis here to educate and grow the game.
“There is such a hunger to learn and develop at the GIANTS which is inspiring.”
The former Victorian reflects on the move with an abundance of gratitude and appreciation for the girls around her.
“The genuine and support care from everyone at the GIANTS has just been second to none,” she said.
“it’s one of my favourite things about this club.
“A lot of us have moved away from home and our support systems so everyone really step up and look after each other.”
As she brings up her first major milestone this Saturday, it’s been a refreshing and timely reminder for the 25-year-old.
“It has been a good reminder of how far I've since being a fresh 18-year-old in year one,” Grierson said.
“It’s been a journey and I'm so grateful for all three clubs and everyone that has played a part in it all.
“I’m excited to grow with this team and see where it takes us.”
Grierson will celebrate her 50th AFLW game alongside Rebecca Beeson this weekend and is one of six current GIANTS players to have recorded the 50-game feat.
The GIANTS take on Port Adelaide this Saturday at Alberton Oval at 3:05pm EDT.
