Growing up in Brocklesby, she quickly learnt that sport and community go hand-in-hand.

"Being from a rural area, football and netball is just how the community gets together," she said.

Starting out with the Brock-Burrum Saints, the now 18-year-old claimed two junior flags at her home club before joining the Ovens and Murray League with North Albury in 2018.

She racked-up another premiership in her first season in the under-16s, while also receiving the Hoppers' Hot Shot Award.

After dazzling in goals in her first A-grade season, Heagney is now one of five nominees for the league's Rising Star Award.

While she admits the season was a learning curve, she discovered more than ever how important it is to stick together as a club when times get tough.

"I learnt just to really stick together as a group and community," she said.

"Being together with our teammates really helped to push us through the season.

"We were able to always talk to each other just to get our heads up and get motivated with training."

Heagney has already had the opportunity to play with a range of players and coaches, with a Regional Victorian League premiership in 2017 a major highlight.

"It was phenomenal," she said.

"It was a great experience because we got to play at the State Netball and Hockey Centre and were viewed from all sides of Victoria that day."

She also relishes her time with the North East Victoria Academy Squad.

"I learnt so many skills with how to play good netball in goal shooter and goal attack," she said.

"I also got to meet a bunch of new people in the North East region and work together as a new team, which was another learning curve with new players and new structures."

Heagney took her first senior season in her stride, scoring 354 goals.

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Corowa-Rutherglen's Grace Senior was the only player to top her.

Heagney admits she's always idolised the former Hopper turned Roo.

"I have always looked up to her (Senior)," she said.

"I'm just trying to fill my own spot in the shooting positions."

The year 12 Xavier High School student is now focusing on her HSC exams, with plans to study nursing in the future.

"I'm a bit nervous about the outcome, but it is what it is," she said.

"I'll try my hardest."

While she said her Rising Star nomination took her by surprise, she's eager to see how far she can go on the court.

"It would be good to know if I can take it further," she said.

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