Renee Saulitis is going from strength to strength.
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The former South Warrnambool player represented the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in every game of this season's NAB League.
And now Saulitis has been named in Vic Country's final 29-strong squad to take part in the AFL Women's under 18 Championships, held in the Gold Coast across June and July.
"I didn't really expect it but it's a great surprise," the 16-year-old said. "Going away with the team, making new friends and playing good footy...it will be an amazing experience, for sure.
"I can't get drafted this year, but I'm hoping it opens up the chance to play in front of people looking for young talent as well."
Saulitis, whose football idol is North Melbourne's Kaitlyn Ashmore, said a move to the back flank of the Rebels' outfit supercharged her end to the NAB League season as she racked up more possessions.
This saw her finish as one of her side's best in the Rebels' one-point win over Oakleigh Chargers, then a top-three side, on May 5.
And Saulitis said she wouldn't forget the finale any time soon.
Her teammate Lilli Condon hit a running shot at goal before the Rebels locked down their defence for several minutes to hold on and triumph.
"It was amazing...like a grand final," she said.
"It was just our second win for the season and all the coaches and supporters got around us."
The under 18 carnival begins for Vic Country and Vic Metro at Werribee on June 22.
They then travel to the Gold Coast for three games against Queensland, Western Australia and the Eastern Allies (NSW/Tasmania) on July 8-11.
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