"I play football because I love the theatre of it and the show, just like boxing," Harris said. The only issue for Harris' opponents in 2020, however, is that she is capable of putting her words into action. Tayla Harris says she is feeling physical. Credit:Getty Images "I am feeling quite physical. I managed to knock three people out boxing this year, not that I will be knocking anyone out, but in terms of footy I will tackle the way I was taught to by my dad," Harris said. "I will be tackling with intent."

Harris has become one of the game's most recognisable players with her pure kicking action immortalised in a bronze statue after a photo of her in full flight became a symbol for the game. The iconic image taken by AFL photographer Michael Willson also became a flashpoint for discussion around social media after online trolls posted offensive messages when the image was displayed. Harris taking on Janay Harding in the ring. Credit:Getty Images Harris took a public stand on the issue, standing up to the sexism displayed online and leading the way for athletes affected by online trolls. She is still amazed at the reach her message had and is glad she took the position she did.

Loading "As much as it was an uncomfortable situation I would do it all again because it managed to help people in some way," Harris said. "[I] love being a role model and the pressure that brings. I understand my role as a role model and it is not as though I wish I wasn't there. I try to make the most of it and do my best," Harris said. No one can ever accuse Harris of not doing her best and in doing so she has become one of AFLW's most watchable players. Harris flies for marks, kicks long goals and is unpredictable at times, her wayward kicking in front of goal at Geelong last season momentarily testing her resolve.

Loading "I had to laugh about it ... it was one of those shit days. Everything was going wrong like those days when you get every red light,'' Harris said. ''I had to stand there after the game and say, 'Am I going to let this affect next week?' [Eventually] I just had to laugh about it." As the key forward in two losing grand finals - playing for Carlton against Adelaide in 2019 and for the Brisbane Lions against Adelaide in 2017 - she has felt the pressure that comes with playing in the competition's biggest games. The losses hurt, too, but she has always carried perspective into and out of games, understanding that the disappointment will only make victory, if it eventually comes, sweeter.