There is no mystery to West Coast defender Jessica Rentsch’s appetite for the contest.

The Eagles latest AFLW Rising Star nominee learnt to play the game against her two brothers, growing up on a farm in country Victoria.

Given the female footy pathways hadn’t at that time been extended to Penshurst, population 461, in the shadows of Victoria’s spectacular Grampians ranges, Rentsch had to play in boys teams til she was 14.

“I have two brothers and just just growing up on a farm, pretty secluded from everyone,” Rentsch said.

“They were who I played with. Not wanting to go to the beach or anything and I’m a really competitive person.

“The whole family is. Card games go crazy.

“Penshurst, she’s small, full of paddocks, got one oval. Small, very community centred. I was the only girl tha

See Full Page