(Around the Grounds is an update on former Saints and Angels playing footy all over the world)
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| A.Legault, from Angel to Devil |
Aussie Rules football was born in the southern Australian state of Victoria, and it’s no surprise that some of the countries strongest leagues reside around the paddock in Melbourne in which the game was first played.
The Victorian Women’s Football League (VWFL) is considered by many to be one of, if not the premier, elite women’s Aussie Rules competition in the world. And for season 2011 that is where Canadian and former Montréal Angel Aimee Legault decided to play, setting herself the ultimate challenge – to play with the best.
In North American women’s Aussie Rules, Aimee Legault’s achievements in such a short space of time (she made her Aussie Rules debut in late 2009) are nothing short of outstanding. She was awarded the Montréal Angels MVP two years running (2009-10), was awarded ‘Most Consistent Player’ of the 2009 U.S Nationals tournament before backing it up with ‘Player of the tournament’ in 2010. Aimee also starred in her club’s 2010 Canadian Nationals victory, booting seven goals and claiming Best on Ground honours alongside her sister Margo Legault who captained the team. Clearly the girl’s father Ron Legault’s interest and passion for Aussie Rules has rubbed off on his two daughters.
The question was always going to be asked, how will a young inexperienced Canadian girl go playing against some of Australia’s best? Aimee’s goals were simple to start with – just make the team. As worry and anxiety crossed her mind about whether or not she could make the cut, or even just gain a place in the reserves squad, all she wanted was the chance to let her newly adopted club – The East Burwood Devils – see her play. They did, and the results are nothing short of superb.
The Devils are currently sitting in the top four (4-3) with a healthy percentage and one eye on playing in the post-season. Their Canadian import not only made the senior squad (first division) but has played every match booting 11 goals in seven games sitting second on her club goalkicking and 13th overall in the league. While those around Aimee had faith in her talent and determination, nobody expected the impact the West-Islander would have amongst the game’s elite.
The International Cup is now only 3 months away, and Canada will be one of the favourites in the women’s division to claim the cup. The Legault sisters have been pivotal in Team CANADA’s success to date, it’s scary to think what almost a year of football in Australia will do to the already sublime game of the famous number 10.
