For Jordan Membrey, the VFLW competition is the next best thing to AFLW.

The 23-year-old has played two seasons of AFLW, initially with Brisbane in 2017 and more recently with Collingwood in 2019.

When it comes to VFLW, this is Membrey’s first after she moved from the Gold Coast to Melbourne late last year to further her football career.

“VFLW is the next best league to be a part of compared to AFLW,” tells Membrey.

“I want to be playing against the best footballers and this where they are. 

“Unfortunately, the competition isn't at an elite standard in Queensland for development or quality, which is why the likes of Jamie Stanton, Ally Anderson, Court Daniec, Court Bromage (all from Queensland) are all down here trying to better themselves.”

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Membrey made her debut in the brown and gold on the weekend, however this wasn’t her first involvement with the club.

The Queenslander came down for a week last year and immersed herself in the Hawks program.

“I wanted experience and to better myself so last year around July I organised to come down and train for the week and be involved as much as possible.

“I loved the way the club was run and I built good rapport with Paddy (VFLW coach Paddy Hill) and the coaching crew.

“I kept in touch with Paddy throughout the season (AFLW) and then came down to start my journey.”

The small forward impressed in her first outing with the Hawks on Saturday kicking a goal on debut.

“I have felt so welcome and included at this club by all players, staff and support staff.

“They have built such an elite environment but also so supportive and invest in the players as individuals, which creates a great team environment.

“It's definitely a family orientated club and so lucky to be a part of that.

“I look forward to see what the future holds here at Hawthorn.”