Moree's Ashleigh Walker has taken another step forward in her rugby career after being selected in the Melbourne Rebels Super W squad for the upcoming season.
Walker is one of 20 newcomers that have been named in the 33-player squad, to go along with a few current and former Wallaroos.
A Moree native, and former Inverell Highlander and Central North representative, Walker made the move down to Melbourne last August, where suited up for the University of Melbourne during the AON Uni 7s in July and August last year, having previously played for the UNE Lions.
Preseason with the squad began in November, and Walker said she was "stoked" when she found out she had made the final squad.
It's been a big step up for the inside centre, with training being "more professional" and of a "higher standard", but she said she has learned a lot more thanks to the quality players and coaches that surround her.
"Alana has a lot of experience at the rep level and used to be a Wallaroo," Walker said.
Current assistant coach for the Wallaroos and specialist kicking coach Pete Breen has also come into the team as the backs coach this year.
"He's probably the best coach I've ever had," Walker said.
"I've been spending heaps of time with him working on my kicking which has been great."
After a break over Christmas, preseason training is now ramping up with four sessions per week, as the Rebels seek their first win in the Super W competition, which is now heading into its third year.
The Rebels have a trial game in Wagga Wagga on February 2 as they prepare for its first game of the Super W season on February 14 against the NSW Waratahs at AAMI Park.