Just like North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos' midfielder Ellie Gavalas, Cripps has long been proud to call Tasmania home.

In 2020, North Media will be profiling some of the club's emerging AFLW stars in our 'Cripps Fresh Talent'.

First up is hard-working midfielder Gavalas.

Sport has always played a role in the life and upbringing of Ellie Gavalas.

Born and raised in Hobart, the 24-year-old had dreams of competing at the highest level – but not in the sport she currently excels in.

“I was raised in Hobart, and I player soccer there until I was 18,” she told North Media.

“Along the way, I played in the state program and did a few things with the national team, including a few camps at the AIS. But nothing really came from it in the end.

“I moved over to Melbourne when I was 18 for university, and at the time, I wanted to give soccer a proper crack. I played over here (Melbourne) for three years in Heidelberg, while studying as well.”

As fate would have it, a chance encounter with some close friends led to Gavalas trying her luck at a different code. 

“I was asked by a friend to have a kick with the girls at Marcellin (College). Even from day one, I’d always preferred watching footy, but I’d never played it,” Gavalas said.

“I’d grown up watching my brothers play and having a kick with my dad as well.”

Despite having no ambitions to play, at least initially, the game came naturally to the athletic Gavalas, who experienced a swift ascension from local footy to state level, and ultimately the AFLW.

Secured with the tenth pick in last year’s AFLW draft, Gavalas looks back on her journey and a life-changing moment with great pride.

“Growing up, I never thought I’d be playing footy. It never crossed my mind for a minute,” she explained.

“When the AFLW came out, I’d gotten to the point where I was a bit sick of soccer. By that time, I’d started playing footy in the VAFA, and loved every minute of it.

“Last year, I played in the VFLW and was lucky enough to get drafted after a season there.

“I’ve always loved sport, but as a kid, it was always soccer for me. I wanted to play for the Matildas (Australian soccer team), but never thought I’d be playing AFLW, or any kind of footy at this level.”

Outside of footy, Gavalas manages her sporting pursuits with life as a full-time physio.

The balancing act can be difficult, but having an understanding inner-circle has made a potentially tricky situation far more manageable.

“It was pretty tough at times, which is why I’ve cut back a little bit,” Gavalas said.

“I have an amazing boss, who is so supportive, and it helps that he’s really obsessed with footy.

“I couldn’t thank him enough, or do this without him. It comes down to communicating, especially if I’m needing time off doing it in a way that helps everyone balance their commitments.

"Balance is something I’ve gotten used to after playing sport for all these years.”

Given her ties to both Victoria and Tasmania, Gavalas couldn’t feel more at home at Arden Street.

She’s played every game so far in 2020.

“I’ve lucked out so much to have North affiliated with Tassie,” she said.

“In a way, it felt weird being down in Launceston. Obviously I’m from Hobart, which is a few hours south, but it did feel good to have my cousins and other family members at the game.

“I’m grateful that the club picked me up and how it’s all played out. We have such a good culture at the club, it’s so inclusive and everyone feels safe and supported.

“We’re all really good friends and we’ve created a really good atmosphere here.

“I’m very grateful for the journey, but it’s been challenging as well. The timing for me has been perfect. I’m lucky that my career as a physio is already going and I’m a bit more mature as well.

“It’s panned out better than I could’ve ever thought.”

The North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos will take on the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday at Arden Street, with the first bounce at 5.10pm. Entry is free.

Click here for match details