Ash Centra Selected as Number One Pick in Historic AFLW National Draft
Introduction
In a historic night for the AFLW league, Ash Centra, a talented midfield prodigy, was selected as the number one pick by Collingwood in the first-ever national draft. This marked a significant shift from previous drafts, where players could nominate their preferred state to play in. Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking event and the promising future it holds for these young athletes.
Ash Centra – A Rising Star
Ash Centra, a powerful midfielder and half-back from Seaspray, Victoria, emerged as the top prospect in this year’s draft. With an impressive track record of 27.1 disposals, 4.2 clearances, and 1.5 goals per game for the Gippsland Power in the Talent League, Centra’s selection as the number one pick came as no surprise. Her exceptional performance throughout the season solidified her status as a game-changer for Collingwood.
The Gold Coast Suns’ Diamond – Havana Harris
At pick two, Gold Coast secured the talented Suns Academy product, Havana Harris, after matching Melbourne’s bid. Harris, often referred to as a "football unicorn" for her versatility as a ruck, forward, and midfielder, brings a unique skill set to the team. Surrounded by other Suns Academy prospects like Mia Salisbury, Tara Harrington, Nyalli Milne, and Heidi Talbot, Harris is set to shine on the field with her exceptional abilities.
Top Picks and Future Stars
Following Harris, the draft saw Melbourne selecting Molly O’Hehir, Greater Western Sydney picking Sara Howley, and Sydney choosing Zipporah "Zippy" Fish. These young athletes represent the future of AFLW with their passion, dedication, and raw talent. O’Hehir’s emotional reaction to being drafted exemplified the significance of this moment in their careers, signaling a new chapter filled with opportunities and challenges.
The Legacy Continues – Father-Daughter Selections
The draft also saw Carlton making strategic picks, including Poppy Scholz and Sophie McKay. The tradition of father-daughter selections was honored as McKay followed in her sister Abbie’s footsteps, who was the first player selected under this rule in 2018. These selections highlight the rich history and legacy of AFLW, showcasing the importance of family ties and continuity in the sport.
Conclusion
As the AFLW national draft unfolds, a new generation of talent emerges, ready to make their mark on the league. From top picks like Ash Centra and Havana Harris to promising newcomers like Molly O’Hehir and Zipporah Fish, the future looks bright for women’s football. With each selection, a story of determination, perseverance, and passion unfolds, painting a picture of a vibrant and dynamic sporting landscape. As these athletes embark on their professional careers, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of fans, supporters, and aspiring players, inspiring a new era of excellence in AFLW.
FAQ
What is the significance of the AFLW national draft?
The AFLW national draft marks a pivotal moment in the league’s history, transitioning to a national pool system and opening up new opportunities for players to showcase their talents on a broader stage.
Who were some of the notable picks in the draft?
Ash Centra, Havana Harris, Molly O’Hehir, and Zipporah Fish were among the standout selections in the draft, reflecting the depth of talent and potential in the AFLW.
How does the draft impact the future of women’s football?
The draft sets the stage for the next generation of AFLW stars, shaping the competitive landscape and driving the growth and development of women’s football in Australia and beyond. Title: The Rise of Sustainable Investing: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction:
Sustainable investing has gained significant traction in recent years as investors increasingly prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their decision-making process. This shift towards more responsible investing is not only driven by ethical considerations but also by the potential for long-term financial outperformance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key aspects of sustainable investing, its benefits, and how investors can incorporate ESG factors into their investment strategies.
What is Sustainable Investing?
- Sustainable investing, also known as socially responsible investing (SRI) or ESG investing, is an approach that considers environmental, social, and governance factors alongside financial returns.
- The goal of sustainable investing is to generate positive impact while achieving competitive financial returns.
- ESG factors can include climate change, diversity and inclusion, human rights, executive compensation, and more.
Benefits of Sustainable Investing:
- Improved risk management: Companies with strong ESG practices tend to have lower risk profiles and are better equipped to weather market volatility.
- Long-term outperformance: Studies have shown that sustainable investing can lead to competitive financial returns over the long term.
- Positive impact: Sustainable investing allows investors to align their values with their investment decisions and drive positive change in the world.
How to Incorporate ESG Factors into Investment Strategies:
- Conduct ESG research: Utilize ESG ratings and data from reputable sources to evaluate companies based on their sustainability performance.
- Engage with companies: Shareholders can engage with companies on ESG issues through proxy voting, shareholder resolutions, and direct dialogue.
- Invest in ESG funds: Consider investing in mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that focus on ESG criteria to gain exposure to sustainable companies.
Expert Insights:
According to a recent study by the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance, sustainable investing assets reached $30.7 trillion globally in 2018, representing a 34% increase from 2016. This growth underscores the growing interest in sustainable investing among investors worldwide.Conclusion:
As sustainable investing continues to gain momentum, investors have the opportunity to not only generate financial returns but also make a positive impact on society and the environment. By integrating ESG factors into their investment strategies, investors can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for all.FAQ:
- What is the difference between sustainable investing and traditional investing?
- Sustainable investing considers environmental, social, and governance factors alongside financial returns, while traditional investing focuses solely on financial performance.
- Can sustainable investing deliver competitive financial returns?
- Yes, studies have shown that sustainable investing can lead to long-term financial outperformance compared to traditional investing strategies.