IT has been a sharp rise for Penshurst product, Jess Rentsch, with the 17-year-old recently named as part of the 30-girl AFLW Academy for 2023.

The former Hamilton Kangaroos junior, who played for Portland last season due to the Roos’ inability to field an underage team, said she was not expecting the selection after a broken leg cut her season short this year.

“It was quite the surprise, very excited though,” she said.

Rentsch moved to Ballarat during the year, boarding at Ballarat Grammar, as she hones in on her footy, with the GWS Giants fan back running and looking ahead to a return to games next year.

“When it first happened, I was trying to stay as positive as I can then was thinking next year is my draft year, so thought it would be a struggle,” Rentsch said.

“The leg is getting there, not a lot of pain, mobility is the thing now.

“It has literally been five months, which seems forever, but I am back kicking the footy .

“Halfway through the year, I asked mum about Ballarat grammar and so it just cancels out that bit of travel.

“Instead of a four-hour round trip twice a week, it will be a five-minute bike ride.

“Some of the other Rebels girls go to Ballarat Grammar as well, so it will be good to get to know them.”

Having spent plenty of time in the ruck at the Tigers during 2022, Rentsch has played other positions across her junior football journey.

Rentsch hopes to settle into a position or two and hone her skills within the academy program.

“I enjoy playing any position, it is a chance to learn and grow but hopefully with this academy I will learn where I am strongest,” she said.

“Hopefully on the wing, pocket or flank, wherever as long as I am playing footy.

The draft hopeful also started her Greater Western Victoria Rebels pre-season this week, under new girls coach, Sally Riley.

Rentsch is also in line for a Victoria Country camp next weekend in Melbourne, as she sets her sights on a big season next year ahead of the AFLW Draft.