Call-up on the cards

The decision to switch from athletics to rugby sevens has paid dividends for Port Kennedy’s Alison Kimberley, who is within touching distance of international selection.

The ex-Kolbe Catholic College student was selected for the Australian Youth Olympics training squad and could play for the Wallabies in China next year if she makes it through two gruelling selection camps in Sydney.

The 17-year-old said she was shocked and excited about the possibility of representing Australia.

“I only just started rugby this year, so I don’t really know how to play still, but it is exciting,” she said.

After competing as a 400m and 800m runner, Alison said she decided to give sevens a go and enjoyed the team atmosphere.

“I have done athletics since I was five... rugby is a lot more exciting compared to just running, it is a fast game, and it is my first contact sport so it is a bit different,” she said.

“Being in a team environment, you can rely on a lot more people and it is a lot more fun, because you can share the experience with everyone else.”

RugbyWA coach Tyler Edwards said Alison’s talent was first noticed in March at the Debbie Hodgkinson Cup open school girls’ tournament.

“Alison was an immediate stand out not only in the Kolbe team, but in the competition,” he said.

“She uses her years of athletics training to great use in rugby, scoring full field tries at ease.”

Alison was part of the under-18 State side which travelled to Gold Coast in September, where coaches and selectors were identifying talent to go to the 2014 Youth Olympics in China.

“Alison again showed her strength and pace in both attack and defence, which landed her selection in the Australian youth squad,” Edwards said.

“I believe she has all the tools to become a force in Australian rugby sevens for the future.”