Amelia Pettit stars for Panthers in game 100

One-hundred games of football at any level is a milestone to be proud of, but it is especially noteworthy when you’re only 15 years old.

And so it was last Saturday for Railways small forward Amelia Pettit, whose flair for the dramatic in a percentage-boosting win against Boulder, 14.19 (103) to 0.0 (0), was underpinned by four goals.

Her display in a forward pocket also earned her a spot on the Panthers’ best player list, alongside Faith Piuk, Megan Bam, Chloe Jones, Tully Jackson and Alisha Davis.

Amelia, who turns 16 in February, is the daughter of the club’s senior coach Rhett Pettit and launched her football career in the nine-and-under ranks in 2016.

Her durability was on show from the outset, lining up in 12 games in each of her first two seasons and 15 in 2018 after advancing to the 10-and-under division.

Sixteen games last year included an appearance for the Goldfields Region Youth Girls against Eastern Districts and her senior debut against Boulder in round one of 2023 produced four goals in a best-on-ground display.

Railways coach Cory Jones said Amelia was a great example of what young players can achieve in the game.

“Amelia is a wonderful product of our junior program who takes after her old man a lot,” Jones said.

“She reads the play well, leads up the ground to brings her teammates into the game, is a good kick and also just a lovely young lady who plays the game in good spirits.”

Under Jones, Railways are embarking on just their second season in the GFLW after a memorable 2022 debut included a grand final appearance against Kalgoorlie.

They were ultimately beaten in the decider by 41 points, but look to have the depth and talent for another genuine flag push this year.

Railways are second with seven wins — a game adrift of Mines Rovers, whose lone defeat was in round 10 against the Panthers.

“It’s been good to find that (high-scoring) form again and we’re gradually building a full side which is nice,” Jones said.

“But to be fair, Boulder were under-manned — only 17 players which made it really tough for them.”

Piuk and Bam each kicked two goals against Boulder.