AFTER nearly earning the title last week, Dandenong Stingrays’ Tyanna Smith has been nominated as the Draft Central NAB League Girls Player of the Week following back-to-back best on ground performances. The Stingrays’ midfielder racked up 29 disposals, five marks, seven inside 50s and laid seven tackles, whilst also having a couple of shots on goal. It followed on from her performance against Eastern Ranges where she was the difference in the second quarter to get her side up and going in that win.

In Round 1, Smith had 26 touches, four marks, six inside 50s, five tackles, two rebounds and booted a remarkable goal from the boundary line in a memorable match. It means her average of 27.5 disposals is ranked second overall in the NAB League competition so far from two rounds, behind our Round 1 Player of the Week winner, Laura Gardiner. Smith is also ranked number one for inside 50s, averaging 6.5 from her two matches showing off her ability to move the ball quickly in transition.

Not only does Smith move the ball quickly, but her ability to burst from the stoppage and hit targets from long range is terrific, and she also looks for the one-two to always keep the ball flowing and in play. Her great advantage is her speed from the contest, but her skills and footy IQ also make her a terrific footballer. With a crucial match coming up against reigning premiers, Northern Knights, it will be fascinating to see how Smith goes against another quality midfield and how the opposition plan to quell her influence considering her impact on the contests in the opening two rounds.

DRAFT CENTRAL NAB LEAGUE GIRLS PLAYER OF THE WEEK:

Round 1 – Laura Gardiner (Geelong Falcons)
Round 2 – Tyanna Smith (Dandenong)