Tarni White’s self-described “tunnel vision” for breaking into the midfield in 2022 paid off in a big, big way.
While the unavailability of key midfielders Georgia Patrikios, Tyanna Smith, Olivia Vesely and Rosie Dillon opened the door for the young Queenslander initially, her fierceness and unrivalled competitiveness when thrown into the middle proved how vital of an asset she was in her natural position. White finished the year second only to Tilly Lucas-Rodd for total clearances, tackles and inside-50s, earning a place in the AFL Players’ Association 22Under22 side for the first time. Despite two ACL reconstructions before the age of 19, the young Queenslander’s determination hasn’t faltered. White was again inducted into the Saints' Emerging Leaders Group alongside Rosie Dillon and Nicola Xenos ahead of Season 7, joining newcomers Alice Burke, Molly McDonald and Hannah Stuart in the newly formed contingent.
