In a thrilling conclusion to the 2023 SANFL Women’s League season, Glenelg’s Piper Window emerged as the standout player, securing multiple awards and solidifying her status as one of the league’s brightest talents.
Window’s exceptional performances on the field and her remarkable achievements off the field make her a true star in the world of women’s football.
As a midfielder for Glenelg, Window showcased her explosive skills throughout the season, averaging an impressive 20 disposals, six clearances, and four inside 50s in her 11 appearances. Her relentless pressure and defensive prowess were evident from the start, as she applied a stunning 17 tackles in Round 1 against West Adelaide, setting the tone for her exceptional campaign.
The 17-year-old Brighton High School student demonstrated her commitment to the game, averaging an outstanding eight tackles per game throughout the season.
Window’s outstanding performances did not go unnoticed, as she claimed the highly coveted Powerade Breakthrough Player award. This recognition is awarded to the league’s most promising player aged 21 and under at the start of the year. As the first Glenelg player to win this award since the inception of the SANFLW competition in 2017, Window has paved the way for future generations of talent at her club.
Moreover, Window’s success extended to the pinnacle of individual recognition in the league. She was named the Best and Fairest of the 2023 Hostplus SANFLW League, becoming the third Glenelg player to receive this honor. This remarkable achievement adds to her accolades as she was also named the ruck rover in The Advertiser SANFLW Team of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the league’s premier players.
In addition to her individual success, Window’s team, Glenelg, celebrated their first SANFLW premiership victory in the club’s centenary season in 2021. Window’s contributions to the team and her remarkable journey from Morphettville Park Football Club to Glenelg exemplify the talent and dedication present in the SANFLW.
The SANFLW is a league that continues to grow and showcase the remarkable talent of women in Australian football. This was evident in the 2023 season, with Central District leading the way in nominations for awards. Caitlin Wendland, Laitiah Huynh, Elaine Grigg, and Charlotte Riggs were all featured on the list of contenders, reflecting the team’s breakthrough campaign.
The 2023 The Advertiser SANFLW Team of the Year, selected based on outstanding performance throughout the minor round, further exemplifies the exceptional talent in the league. Central District, South Adelaide, Norwood, and Sturt were well represented, with each team having three players selected. Central District’s achievements were particularly notable, as the team qualified for their inaugural SANFLW League finals campaign and emerged as the league’s highest-scoring side in the minor round.
Women’s football continues to make significant strides, and the SANFLW stands as a shining example of the dedication and talent within the sport. With players like Piper Window leading the way, the future of women’s football in South Australia looks brighter than ever. As fans and supporters, we should continue to champion and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable athletes who are rewriting the narrative of women in sport.
