Hannah Priest's Remarkable Journey: From Teacher to St Kilda Captain
After six impactful seasons as captain, Hannah Priest has stepped down from her leadership role at St Kilda, marking the end of an era for the club. Priest, now 34, has woven a fascinating narrative from her initial days in football to becoming a pivotal figure in the AFLW.
Priest’s journey began in October 2019, when she faced an uncertain future. As a 27-year-old preparing her students for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) exams, she made a bold move to request a day off to attend the AFL draft in Melbourne. “I said, 'I might get drafted or I might not, but if you're okay just to give me a day off to give it a crack?' and he said, 'Absolutely, Hannah, go for it,'” she shared with ABC Sport.
To her delight, St Kilda selected Priest with pick No. 41. She returned to her classroom the next day to a mix of surprise and admiration from her students, many of whom had no idea she played football.
A Late Start in a Growing League
Priest's late entry into football mirrors the broader evolution of the AFLW. Having played netball for years and only transitioning to Australian rules football after the league’s inception in 2017, she embodies the unique challenges athletes from non-traditional backgrounds face.
“Had I been a few years older, I might have missed out on playing altogether,” Priest reflected. Not only did she step into uncharted territory for herself, but her experiences reflect the journey of many players who have carved pathways in a sport once closed off to them.
Priest noted her formative years were filled with fellow athletes from diverse sports backgrounds—swimming, basketball, and volleyball—who joined the AFLW in its infancy. “I remember the Saints saying, 'You can't really kick, but we think you can learn,'” she recounted, emphasizing the development-focused ethos prevalent in those early stages.
A Leadership Evolution
Priest quickly became a key figure at St Kilda, appointed co-captain in 2021 then taking the helm alone in 2022. Her ascent from a high school teacher to captain of a professional sports team within a few years reflects her dedication and growth alongside her teammates and the league.
Under her leadership, St Kilda made their first finals appearance last year, showcasing how far the team has come. “The professionalism and athletic profile of our young talent coming through has really improved,” she said, pointing to how better developmental pathways now exist for aspiring players.
This weekend, Priest will support the team in their inaugural AFLW match at Docklands Stadium, albeit without the captain's title. St Kilda's match against Carlton is a significant event not just for the club but for the league, as it launches the women’s season and honors the memory of esteemed club legend Danny Frawley.
On the cusp of this momentous game, Priest described the mix of excitement and nerves the team feels. It’s more than just footy for her; it’s an opportunity to elevate awareness about mental health. "As the AFL's marquee mental health match, it’s crucial for us to honor his legacy," she mentioned, underlining the importance of supporting one another beyond the sport.
“I always say you can't pour from an empty cup, so you've got to make sure that you're looking after yourself first,” Priest added, illustrating her commitment to mental wellness alongside athletic success.
Priest's narrative is emblematic of the challenges and triumphs found within the growing realm of women's sports. Her storied journey stands as a testament to both personal resilience and the enduring evolution of the AFLW, a league that continues to break barriers and build futures.