South Warrnambool co-captain out of DUFFL grand final with debutante ball

The Warrnambool College student will miss the Deakin University Female Football League under 18 decider which clashes with her debutante ball.

"It was definitely a tough decision," she said.

"I have a lot of trust in the girls to perform well and get through without me."

Heyden, 17, has played all 11 matches for the Roosters in 2019.

The onballer, who has played for three seasons, is eligible for the junior competition again next season.

She said she had always enjoyed football and took inspiration from her older brother Damon Delaney, an ex-Cobden player who now runs out for Rokewood.

"He's someone I look up to for a lot of advice," Heyden said.

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Heyden expects South Warrnambool co-captain Matilda Ryan to lead the way against Horsham Demons at Melville Oval as the Roosters strive for their first DUFFL under 18 premiership.

Ryan, 17, will line up in defence for the undefeated Chris Meade-coached team.

"I love it. Last year I was running around everywhere but this year I like the stability and knowing my role," she said.

"Towards the end of the game you have responsibility."

Ryan is in her third DUFFL campaign after starting her football in the Warrnambool and District league.

"I used to play with the boys and played until I was allowed to which was under 14.5s at Dennington," she said.

"It was a coincidence the girls (competition) popped up then and I went and checked it out."

Ryan, who goes to Emmanuel College, said the Roosters' success could be attributed to "the bond we have inside and outside of footy".

"We go to school together and social events outside of school, whether it's training at the beach, hanging out at each other's houses or getting up early to go for a kick."

The grand final is scheduled for 6.30pm under lights at Hamilton's Melville Oval.

A league best and fairest presentation will take place before the first bounce.

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