COLLINGWOD forward Jasmine Garner, who came to prominence twelve months ago when she kicked the first goal in the NAB AFL Women’s competition, is ready to take another leap. 

The 23-year-old St Kilda Sharks product has dropped 15kg to transform her fitness base and stay competitive against the competition’s best defenders in the air and on the ground. 

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"Before I got drafted, I [had] never really used a gym before. I’m used to just going down to the park and having a kick," Garner said. 

"I knew I had the talent for it (AFLW), it was just I had to really work hard. On a weekend, I’d go down to the park, take my dog [and] … do those running sessions."

She is already reaping the rewards of her new approach, with selection in the 2017 VFLW team of the year and a game-high five goals in Victoria’s demolition of the Allies in the 2017 NAB AFL Women’s State of Origin match.

Selected 86th in the 2016 NAB AFLW Draft, the strong-marking Garner played all seven games for the Pies last year, forming a dangerous combination with Jess Duffin and Moana Hope.

"That first game last year, where we had a lock-out, was just amazing and I don’t think anyone was expecting that," Garner said. 

"After the game, I checked my phone and had all these messages from family and friends congratulating me [on kicking the first goal]. It’s definitely something I’ll never forget." 

The landscape gardening apprentice began her football journey as the only girl playing among boys for Yarraville Football Club in Melbourne’s inner west at under-nine level. She was an All Australian at junior level.

Growing up, Garner idolised Carlton’s Anthony Koutoufides and the No. 43 she wears is a nod to him.