Sarah Skinner is one of 11 Tasmanians who will line up in North Melbourne’s VFLW side this Saturday when it takes on on Essendon at Windy Hill.

The 21-year-old played for Burnie and Glenorchy in the Tasmanian State League Women’s (TSLW) before the demands of COVID-19 saw the league fold.

Despite the challenges, the Tasmanian youngster has not taken a backwards step. The mid/forward took advantage of the Kangaroos’ connection to the state, featuring in 11 VFLW games so far this season.

“North Melbourne [has] flown me over each week. It has been a really good experience which I am grateful for,” Skinner told The Advocate.

“I do feel really lucky to have this opportunity, which is important for players like myself who are too old for the NAB League and hopefully more girls like me in the future… can get this chance.”

Skinner said the opportunity to develop her game in the VFLW had been invaluable.

“There is a lot more uncontested football (in the VFLW) with a higher work-rate off the ball to create the uncontested play,” she said.

“Down here (Tasmania) the ball is a bit more of a scrap and is in dispute, but over there (Melbourne) it is more skilful and structured.

“I am surprised with how I am going, as I didn’t expect to be playing this well, and that is credit to my teammates and coaching staff who have invested so much in me and North Melbourne.”

The 11 Tasmanian players set to don the royal blue and white stripes on Saturday will consist of TSLW talent, NAB League talent and current AFLW listed players, including Mia King, Ellie Gavalas, Brooke Brown, Daria Bannister and Nicole Bresnehan.

“Having 11 (Tasmanian) players out there on Saturday will be pretty special as we will also be representing Tassie as well,” Skinner added.