Midfielder Jo Miller is ready to make her AFLW debut as Yartapuulti takes on the Gold Coast Suns this Saturday. Miller, who recently joined the team as an injury replacement, brings extensive experience from the SANFLW, where she excelled with Glenelg, securing a second-place finish in the club’s best-and-fairest award for the season.
Once a train-on player for Yartapuulti, Miller’s journey to the AFLW has been unique. Originally from Queensland, she is known for her endurance and ability to secure possession, skills honed through her background as a former triathlete. Her debut will be especially meaningful as her family, based just south of Brisbane, will be able to attend and support her from the stands. Yartapuulti’s senior coach, Lauren Arnell, expressed excitement for Miller’s first game, highlighting the midfielder’s impressive journey through various leagues—from Brisbane to Darwin and then to Glenelg—before joining Yartapuulti.
Arnell praised Miller’s fitness and determination, remarking, “Jo has had quite the path to reach the AFLW. She’s put in the work at each level, and her experience as a triathlete will really add an extra dimension to our midfield, especially on a large field like Carrara.”
Stepping in to fill the role of experienced defender Ange Foley, who has been managed for this game, Miller joins a squad eager for competition. In addition, Alex Ballard, Maddy Keryk, and Alissa Brook have been named as emergencies, ready to support the team as needed.
Fans can catch Yartapuulti’s clash with the Suns at 3:05 pm AEST (3:35 pm ACDT) at People First Stadium on the Gold Coast. For those unable to attend, the game will be broadcast live on 7TWO, Fox Footy, and Kayo, ensuring supporters don’t miss Miller’s exciting debut.