Western Bulldogs AFLW player Tiarna Ernst was awarded with the MVP Education and Training award at the AFLPA MVP Awards on Thursday night in Melbourne.

The Education and Training award recognises the player who has successfully combined football with work commitments, professional development, education and training.

Currently working 86 hours per fortnight at Monash Health as an obstetrician and gynaecologist, Ernst was nominated by the Western Bulldogs for her dedication to the Club’s women’s football program and broader medical community.

Western Bulldogs Women’s Football General Manager Debbie Lee said that Ernst’s ability to fully dedicate herself to the Club, while contributing so much time to Monash Health is worthy of recognition.

“Tiarna has shown an outstanding ability to juggle her football, work, study and personal commitments throughout an intense AFLW season, while displaying a passion and drive to undertake ongoing development opportunities to further her career,” said Lee.

“Her commitment to the Club’s women’s football program has never wavered and we’re incredibly thrilled to see her receive recognition for her hard work.”

Throughout her AFLW journey, Ernst has successfully taken part in a competitive and time-consuming medical specialist training program with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians (RANZCOG), while also making a significant contribution the Monash Junior Health Medical Staff Advisory Committee, where she acts as a committee member and secretary.

On top of her AFLW, RANZCOG and Monash Health commitments, Ernst is also currently undertaking a Postgraduate Masters Course.

“I’m incredibly grateful to receive the Education and Training award to cap off an incredible season with the Club,” said Ernst.

“Over the course of the AFLW preseason and season, players have to balance long hours at work or studying followed by intense training sessions, so it’s extremely humbling to be rewarded for that commitment surrounded by my teammates.”