SWFLW 2023: Optus Medal an added bonus for Bunbury midfielder Ruby Mahony

Bunbury onballer Ruby Mahony capped off an unforgettable 2023 season on Sunday at Kelly Park, playing in the Bulldogs’ six-point win against Busselton in the SWFL women’s grand final. Before returning to the Bulldogs in July, Mahony played a full WAFLW season with Swan Districts, finishing second in the WAFLW’s Dhara Kerr Medal. Justin Fris caught up with Mahony moments after she got her hands on the premiership cup. Q — Firstly, congratulations. The Optus Medal I guess is just a bonus on top of what you were able to do today as a team? A — “Honestly, I didn’t expect this. I think there were so many girls out there who deserved this medal today. Each and every one of them fought so hard. “I’m so proud of them all and absolutely honoured by this — I’m still taking it all in.” Q — How did you find playing with Bunbury following a full season with Swan Districts? You really seemed to settle back in and enjoy yourself? A — “This (Bunbury women’s team) is where I’ve come from and these are my girls. It just feels so good to play alongside them again. “It felt good rolling through from Swans. Honestly, the competition has absolutely lifted this year, it’s been amazing.” Q — Will you get to enjoy a few days off now? Or will it be back to work tomorrow helping people as a personal trainer? A — “I get two days off to enjoy the celebrations, so I’ll definitely be soaking it all up.”