The South West Academy of Sport continues to provide a valuable training ground for young footballers striving to the highest representative level, with Ella Roberts the latest alumni athlete to ascend into the ranks of the AFLW.

From Margaret River teenager to West Coast’s first pick in the AFLW draft, it’s been a big step up for Roberts but the 17-year-old wouldn’t have it any other way – she is living her dream.

The forward, who was an under-19s MVP, is training with the club up to five times a week as the team prepares for the upcoming pre-season practice match.

“I got to go to Melbourne for draft night which was pretty cool to hear me name read out,” Roberts said.

“It’s obviously a dream I’ve had my whole life, so it’s very satisfying that it’s finally come true and it’s definitely lived up to its expectations.

“I’ve waited for it my whole life and it’s definitely been worth the wait.

“It’s been incredible.”

The Peel Thunder premiership player’s advice to up-and-comers aspiring to careers in sport was to “just keep striving towards your goals.”

“All the little steps will end up being a massive step,” Roberts said.

“It can be definitely be hard sometimes but at the end of the day it will be 100 per cent worth all those kilometres.

“It may be hard at the time but it is going to be 100 per cent worth it.”