Ruby Svarc’s performance in Brisbane’s narrow six-point victory over Hawthorn in Sunday’s qualifying final is a testament to her evolution as a player. Although she has been a regular fixture in the team for 41 AFLW games and even claimed a premiership title, it’s safe to say that her current form is among the best of her career. In a match where Brisbane had to fight back from a challenging start, it was Svarc who ignited her team’s momentum, contributing to two key goals that helped swing the game in their favor.
What sets Ruby apart this season is the confidence and freedom she’s playing with. Reflecting on her development, she explained that when she first joined the team, her focus was primarily on defense—bringing speed and pressure to the game. However, over the last few years, she has worked diligently to refine her offensive skills, an area where she had little previous experience. “I’ve been really focusing on my offensive game, just learning what to do when I have the ball,” Svarc shared in an interview. This shift is clearly paying off, as her recent performances are proof of her growth as a versatile player.
Although her individual statistics in the final—10 disposals, one tackle, and two inside 50s—might not appear extraordinary at first glance, Svarc’s influence was undeniable. The Hawks’ intense defensive pressure initially threatened to derail the Lions’ hopes of securing a fifth preliminary final, but it was Svarc’s agility and speed