At just 16 years old, Eloise Baumgurtel is proving what passion, resilience, and determination look like. Growing up on a farm in country South Australia, Eloise has lived and breathed sport for as long as she can remember.
“I have played Australian rules footy since I was eight and immediately fell in love with it,” Eloise says. “During the summer I play tennis and I swim. Sport has made me who I am today.”
Even a serious injury could not keep her away from the game she loves. While she recovers, Eloise has stepped into a volunteer role as a sports trainer at her club to stay connected and continue contributing. “Because of my injuries, I want to become an exercise physiologist so I can help athletes like me,” she adds.
Eloise credits her parents for inspiring her passion for football. “They never once told me I couldn’t play football because I was a girl. They were so happy when I told them I wanted to play,” she says.
That encouragement mattered, especially when others tried to discourage her. “When I was told by teammates and opposition players that I should be in the kitchen or on the netball court, my parents and my grandma inspired me to be resilient and not let them stop me from playing the sport I love.”
In 2017, Eloise’s passion grew even stronger when she discovered AFLW. “A stand out was Erin Phillips. She was a huge inspiration to me. I was awestruck with her incredible talent and leadership skills.”
One of Eloise’s proudest moments came in 2022 when she stepped into an unfamiliar position. “A few games into the season, sudden plans changed and it left me in the ruck. This was an unusual position for me, but I worked hard all season and we made it into the grand final. At the end of the season, I was awarded the coaches award.”
Eloise has embraced leadership roles early in life. “I have been a vice-captain before and that taught me a lot about perspective. Backing this role, I am currently president of my school’s SRC. Again, this has taught me that everyone has different needs and they need representing. In sport, different players learn differently and they all need a voice.”
When Eloise’s school wellbeing leader suggested the Empowered to Lead program, she jumped at the opportunity. “I read about it and thought it sounded interesting. I wanted to try and improve my leadership skills.”
She admits she was unsure what to expect going in. “I had no idea what to expect when the first huddle came around. I thought it would be all people my age who want to learn about leadership. Then I went to the first meeting and met a lot of lovely women of all ages who are all likeminded and willing to learn. It wasn’t just about leadership; it was personal development in a community that lifts each other up and supports each other.”
The program left a big impression on Eloise. “Seeing how many years of experience we had as a group stood out to me. I always thought I wouldn’t have much of a career in sport, but this showed me that I have a long way to go and I can’t wait to see where I will go. The energy and life that Holly brought to the first meeting was incredible. She made a long Monday end happily.”
The program gave Eloise tools and confidence that she uses daily. “Before, I didn’t think anyone would listen to me. Now I know my opinion is valued. Starting with our own mindset was amazing because it is good to know what is going on inside your own head before you help other people.”
One concept in particular stuck with her. “I am recovering from an injury and often think negatively. This course has really helped my mindset. Now when I feel negative about being injured, I check what headspace I am in and whether I am above or below the line. This course has helped me view below the line as not something to fear but something to learn from. I know what it looks like within myself and what I can do to get above it.”
Another practical takeaway is the third space. “Since learning about the third space, every day on the bus before I get picked up, I reflect on the day I have had, I rest, and then I reset. I am then ready to leave my school day behind and focus on going home.”
Eloise is passionate about creating change for country girls in sport. “I would love for there to be more competitions for country girls. We have to drive so far to play footy and represent an area far from home. If there were opportunities, I think more girls would play. Not just football though. Women should be able to play whatever sport they want to and not feel judged.”
She also wants to see safer, more supportive environments. “There should be an environment that encourages young women to engage in sports. There should not be an environment that lets people get away with sexism. Women should feel safe when they play sport, not judged.”
For now, Eloise is focused on recovery and returning to the game she loves. “After I recover from my injury, I will be straight back to playing football and encouraging girls in my area to play so maybe one day there is a girls’ football competition. I plan to put what I have learned to the test with my leadership position at school and extend it to sport soon.”
When asked what it means to Play Like a Girl, Eloise sums it up beautifully.
“To me, it means putting your heart and soul into whatever you do. Try as hard as you can and never give up. Be resilient and do not let other people’s opinions get to you. Play even when it is difficult and tough. Succeed in spite of haters. But most of all, always love and enjoy whatever sport you choose.”
We are so proud of Eloise and everything she is achieving. The entire Play Like a Girl community is behind her and cannot wait to see what she does next.
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