Julia Teakle fronted the media on day 1 of AFLW pre-season. 

Port Adelaide forward Julia Teakle says the group has a focus on consistency and process, as they officially hit the track and begin their preparations for the 2025 season.  

After the team’s 2024 season ended in a preliminary final loss to North Melbourne, Teakle said the focus for the group this year is consistency, process, and closing the gap between the top teams in the competition.  

Speaking at Alberton on Monday, Teakle touched on form, expectations on the group after an inaugural finals campaign in 2024, the return of Lauren Young, and welcoming Ella Heads to the club.  

Teakle on Day 1 of pre-season  

“I’m very impressed with all the girls and how they’ve come back, it definitely shows we’ve got another strong offseason under all our belts.  

“For some of us that was our fourth offseason, and it was about being consistent and building on what we already have. The girls have come back in great shape.” 

Teakle on expectations ahead of the 2025 season 

“I wouldn’t say there is expectation (on making finals), we’ve always kept our attention in house, and we’re focusing on that, rather than any external expectation. We’re focused on our training and process set by Loz and the coaches. 

“It’s definitely about closing the gap (between us and the best teams). We spoke briefly about that today; we certainly have aspirations to be consistently more competitive against teams like North Melbourne and Brisbane – that will be a major goal for us this year.  

“I think it (making finals) gives us a sense of confidence that we are capable of that. I think for us it shows that we are around the mark, and we need to continue to build on that.” 

Teakle on the release of the 2025 AFLW fixture 

“We’re sort of used to the unknown. We’re just keen to get back and get training again.  

“It’s nice to see all the girls back on the track so I think when the fixture comes, it will come, and we will plan for that.  

“Not having the condensed fixture is definitely a massive relief. There will be more recovery time for the body, and less chance for injury. 

“We’re happy with whatever we get dealt with, and we will deal with it as it comes.” 

Teakle on not playing in the SANFLW 

“For me personally I have preferred it to just focus on getting the body right, rather than putting the body at risk.  

“We’ve been able to focus on getting the body stronger rather than having to rush back to games.  

“It’s nice to get a bit of match play but it’s probably just a bit too early for us to get stuck into that.” 

Teakle on Lauren Young’s return from an ACL injury 

“I’ve only seen snippets of Lauren Young and her array of highlights, and we’re super keen to get her back. She’s been on the park training with us, and we can’t wait.” 

Teakle on Matilda Scholz’s form and spot in the forward line 

“I don’t think there’s any limits for Matilda. She’s had another great offseason under her belt, she’s so strong in the gym, and works super hard doing extras all the time. She really sets a tone for the young group. 

“We saw snippets of it last year – she definitely did go forward, and she can be super damaging as we’ve seen.” 

Teakle on welcoming Ella Heads to the club 

“She’s fitted in seamlessly. She’s been a great addition to the group already.” 

“Her voice, we’re a similar age, but just her experience in the comp, she’s so good. Her skills as well – she will be a great addition to our backline, especially leadership wise.”