The 19-year-old was the sole Tasmanian picked up in last year’s national draft, and debuted in the Bulldogs’ round 1 clash against Fremantle. 

But an ACL injury sustained in the final quarter of her debut called an end to the midfielder-forward’s season and will force her to watch from the grandstand this weekend as the Bulldogs shoot for their maiden premiership.

“I’d rather be out there on the field with the girls but you can’t help these things with injury,” Bannister said.

“I’m still very honoured to sit on the sidelines and be able to support and cheer the girls on - hopefully to win the grand final.

“It’s not the best way to end your debut game but I’m recovering very well and I’ll hopefully make a strong return in 2019.”

The number 19 pick has set her sights on a return in round 1 next season, and has begun a 12-month rehabilitation regime comprising stability, strength and motion exercises.

Some might be disheartened at spending a year off from competitive action, but Bannister is determined to continue her development by soaking up her surroundings – starting with participating in the Bulldogs’ Grand Final preparations this week. 

“At the moment it’s just setting small goals and getting back on my feet (but) you learn plenty of different things sitting on the sidelines.

“Obviously playing is a different view but being able to learn and still watch the training sessions and learn from the girls and the coaches is still up there.

“I’m able to sit in all the meetings and still take in a lot of information and learn so that’s been a good factor.”

After the completion of this year’s AFLW season, Bannister will return to her home club Launceston, which registered its second AFL debutant in February when Courtney Webb lined up for Carlton.

Injury will prevent Bannister from taking to the field for the reigning TSLW premier this season, although she still expects to play a role in the Blues’ title defence. 

“I plan to come back home for a bit after the season so I’ll be able to watch plenty of games and hopefully have a bit of a coaching role with the forwards so that should be pretty exciting.

“I won’t just be sitting on the sidelines, I’ll be a bit more involved in hopefully teaching a few girls what I’ve learnt at the Bulldogs and have an impact on their game as well, so I’m hoping to get back and get more involved in that.”

Western Bulldogs will meet Brisbane in Saturday’s AFLW Grand Final at Ikon Park.

The first bounce is at 12.35pm.