Standing at 184cm, new Fremantle ruck Mim Strom doesn’t have to look up to many people.

But the 17-year-old was thrilled to join Fremantle at pick no.21 in Tuesday’s NAB AFL Women’s Draft, as it meant she was able to continue to work with a number of her footy idols.

After beginning her career at South Fremantle, Strom continued her development in 2019 under the guidance of Swan Districts coach and Fremantle captain Kara Antonio.

Strom said it was clear throughout the draft process that her WAFLW coach was heavily invested in her career – no matter where she ended up in the AFLW.

“Kara texted me before the draft and said good luck,” Strom said.

“She said that she would love to have me at Freo, but either way she said she was very proud of me, which meant so much.

“She texted me again as soon as she heard the (draft) news and I was just so touched by that as well. It was amazing.”

After starting out with South Fremantle, who only field a reserves side in the WAFLW, Strom said she was nervous about having to switch clubs so she could test herself at league level.

“I originally moved down (from Exmouth) two years ago and I started playing for South Fremantle and then through the state program. They wanted me to play league, which I was a bit worried about,” Strom said.

“They knew it was the best thing for me and Swans were nice enough to take me on. They took on a lot of young girls and helped to develop them.

“Kara’s been absolutely amazing and that was a great opportunity.

“I’ve been playing for Swan Districts and they just accepted me so well. They have a great club culture and playing with them has been absolutely amazing.”

As soon as her name was called out, Strom was surprised with a knock on the door from Fremantle president Dale Alcock and Swans and new Fremantle teammate Gemma Houghton.

She was presented with a Fremantle jumper and polo and posed for photos with her family.

“I wasn’t expecting that!” Strom said.

“For that to come from Gemma, she’s a real inspiration to me as well, so that was pretty cool.

“I know a few of the Freo girls like Gemma and Kara…it will be great getting to play with them and getting involved in the team culture.”

Strom said the most vivid memory of the draft was being able to share the moment with her family.

“My mum was screaming a bit and I was just in shock. Just hearing my name, I think it took a bit to sink in and I was pretty excited,” Strom said.

“I got a call from my dad straight away. He was working but he was watching the live stream and he snuck away to give me a call.

“My brothers have sent me messages, my sister called me straight away. It’s amazing having a big family, the love was incredible.”