Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 10, 2024 6:13 pm GMT
TikTok Sensation: How Jasmyn Smith Became the Unexpected Face of AFLW
From Up-and-Coming Player to Viral Star
Jasmyn Smith, a young football talent from the Western Bulldogs, has unexpectedly become one of the central figures in the AFLW. After only a handful of matches, she has captured the attention of fans thanks to a series of viral TikTok videos showcasing her skills and charisma. Initially drafted to the Gold Coast Suns, Smith’s ascendance to popularity has been nothing short of remarkable, allowing her to reach new audiences that may not have previously engaged with women’s footy.
These fan-created TikTok videos, filled with compilations of her gameplay, have garnered tens of thousands of likes and comments, predominantly from a demographic that includes many new, primarily male fans. The sheer volume of these videos has influenced perceptions of the league and the sport, signaling a growing interest in AFLW among audiences less familiar with the women’s game.
Embracing Her New Role
While the sudden rise to prominence could overwhelm anyone, Smith remains grounded in her new role as an ambassador for the sport. “I have seen the edits,” she said in an interview. “I’ve never made a TikTok myself, so it’s not really from me, I suppose, this audience. Someone else reached this target audience for me.” Smith appreciates that because of these videos, more people are discussing AFLW, which she sees as an essential step in bringing awareness and support to the league.
Expressing enthusiasm for the future, Smith encourages fans to attend games and foster a greater community around women’s football. “We need people to come to the games. We need people to be involved and want to come watch us,” she stated, indicating her dual interest in both personal growth and elevating the league’s profile.
Pursuing Footy Passion in Melbourne
Making the choice to move to Melbourne during the off-season, Smith aimed to immerse herself fully in what many consider Australia’s football capital. “I think I had a lot to learn in my football career,” she remarked, expressing gratitude for the supportive environment of the Bulldogs organization. From the moment she arrived, players and staff welcomed her warmly, helping her transition into her new role seamlessly.
At just 20 years old, Smith has played every game available for the Bulldogs this season. The team is currently in a rebuilding phase, which has brought challenges but also opportunities for growth. Despite facing some tough losses early in the 2024 season, Smith has maintained a positive outlook. “We’re definitely approaching every game as if we’re going to win,” she noted, emphasizing the team’s commitment to improvement and development despite setbacks.
Leveraging Past Fame
Interestingly, Smith’s previous experience as a Nickelodeon presenter has also contributed to her ability to engage with a wider audience. From a young age, she was in the spotlight, covering events like the Kids’ Choice Sports Awards, which helped her build a platform long before her AFLW career began. “I gained a bit of a platform through that but then once I got into AFLW, I gained like even more,” she explained, showing her determination to use her visibility to promote women’s sports.
As her social media presence flourishes, Smith has become a beacon for aspiring athletes in the AFLW. Currently, she holds the second-highest number of Instagram followers among AFLW players, with a community rallying behind her as one of the faces of the league. The surge in her online following coincided with her newfound TikTok fame, wherein she gained around 30,000 followers in a single night, a moment she described as “really, really crazy.”
Community Engagement Through Sport
Smith’s story is a testament to the impact that social media and grassroots engagement can have on sports demographics. As traditional media outlets expand their coverage of women’s sports, figures like Smith are leading the charge to inspire the next generation of athletes. “Honestly, like any exposure is good exposure,” she remarked about the TikTok phenomenon. “We need to get our numbers up,” she added, highlighting a collective ambition among players to expand the audience for AFLW and ensure its growth.
Furthermore, engaging a younger audience through platforms like TikTok not only brings in new fans but also fosters a sense of community among supporters. By encouraging participation and attendance at games, Smith and her fellow players hope to transform the landscape of women’s Australian football into one that’s vibrant and well-supported.
As the Western Bulldogs take on tough matchups this season, such as the recent clash against West Coast, Smith’s trajectory will certainly be one to watch. With every game, every viral clip, and every interaction with fans, she continues to meld her dual roles as a player and an advocate for women’s sports, reinforcing the notion that the future of AFLW is bright
Embracing the Spotlight: The Rise of a New AFLW Icon
In recent months, the narrative surrounding the AFLW has been charged with energy, especially following record viewership and engagement levels. The emergence of female athletes as prominent figures within the sports landscape has gained notable traction, further amplified by social media platforms. In particular, a TikTok video showcasing a new Dog, who played just seven games, transformed her into an unexpected sensation. This viral moment not only highlighted her prowess on the field but also positioned her as a relatable figure for many fans, tapping into the collective passion for women’s sports.
This new dog’s journey shows how social media can help athletes get noticed and gain support. By stepping into her role as a star of the AFLW, she has sparked important talks about representation and inclusion in women’s sports. The mix of her talent and being true to herself in this surprising spotlight reminds us that one moment can lift up a player and an entire league. This opens doors for a future where women’s sports can grow and succeed even more.
