Imagine being that talented that you’re forced to choose between a career in cricket and footy. That was Poppy Stockwell’s reality.
In facing her AFLW vs Cricket dilemma, Stockwell turned to her self-professed idol Mitch Marsh.
A fellow WA legend, Marsh faced the same choice as Poppy and has certainly succeeded, going as far as representing his country on the world stage.
Stockwell, the 18-year-old all-rounder, has been juggling her love for both sports for several years as she explored which one to focus on.
With a thanks to the cricket gods, Stockwell chose cricket and signed a two-year contract to represent WA in the Women’s National Cricket League.
As a talented wicket keeper and batter, Stockwell was able to achieve her dream through the support of WA Cricket’s Pathway Development Program.
Each year, a handful of promising players are chosen from their Academy Squad that they see as having potential, show strong commitment to the game and who would benefit most from selection.
These players receive a mix of monetary funding through the WA Cricket Foundation and further support to aid in their development.
Stockwell was one such player who was selected last year, having been noticed for her natural roar and competitive nature.
“Poppy is one of those players who always pulls up her sleeves and digs deep when we need her to” Madonna Blyth, Coach & Talent Development Manager – Female Programs at WA Cricket said.
Marsh, flattered for being an example of success for Stockwell, is proud of the direction women’s sport is heading.
“We have some amazing pathways for women to have genuine careers in sport, which is great to see,” he said.
Check out Channel 10’s coverage of Poppy’s journey by watching the video below.
No better idols than Mitch Marsh and Beth Mooney to help @WACA_Cricket Poppy Stockwell prepare for the #WNCL. #cricket https://t.co/F4LHXRar57
— Ashleigh Nelson (@ashnelson08) September 1, 2022