When it comes to teammates, there aren’t many better than the great Danielle Ponter.
On the field, she is simply electric with her ability to dazzle defenders and kick goals from anywhere.
Off the field, she is just as lively, constantly cracking a joke and being the loveable larrikin every team needs.
As she prepares for her 50th game against Gold Coast this weekend, I thought it was a good time to sit back and reflect on some of her greatest moments.
From kicking sealers on Grand Final day, to taking Mark of the Year, the proud Anmatyerre, Marranunggu and Tiwi woman has certainly made her mark in the tri-colours.
In no particular order, here are my top five DP moments.
1. Announcing herself on the big stage - 2019 Grand Final v Carlton
On the biggest stage of all, DP delivered a performance to remember in 2019.
Being out there with her, it was as if everything she touched turned to gold. She booted three goals and played a crucial hand in a lot of the great things that happened for us that day.
She really solidified herself as a star of the competition on that day, and it was a joy to be able to share the celebrations with her.
2. Mark of the Year v Western Bulldogs - Round Eight, 2021
This moment perfectly sums up DP as a player in my eyes.
With only eyes only for the footy, she soared over Rachelle Martin (sorry Chellie!) and brought down a memorable grab.
I am just in awe of what she does on the field, and this was definitely one of those moments.
3. Indigenous Round v Fremantle - Season Six, Round Eight
DP has always had a knack of standing up in big games, and this was no exception.
Coming up against a formidable Dockers team in Perth, without Erin Phillips and Captain Chelsea Randall, she stood up and collected 20 disposals, while booting two goals, leading us to a famous victory.
What made the day even more special was the fact it fell on Indigenous Round, an occasion she looks forward to performing in every year.
4. Kicking the premiership sealer - Season Six, Grand Final v Melbourne
What an iconic moment this was!
Once again showing her ability to perform on the big stage, DP put the full-stop on our third premiership with an incredible individual effort.
Starting with a great contested mark, she had the audacity to play on from the tight angle and kick a goal only DP could kick.
To see her embrace the crowd afterwards, it was such a great moment.
5. An incredible individual effort - Season Seven, Round Nine versus Geelong
This was another moment that showcased DP’s freakish skills.
In the early stages of a crucial clash with the Cats, she instinctively intercepted a switch kick, before burning off a number of defenders by taking four bounces.
She was then able to compose herself and kick a goal, with the effort a sign of things to come as she led us to an important win.
There’s so many more moments I could talk about because, let’s face it, DP is a highlight reel.
But for now, I just want to wish you the best of luck for your big milestone, DP!
Can’t wait to run out alongside you in Game 50. Let’s get it!
Go Crows!
Eb x
