The Wollongong product looked a chance to land at a top club in 2019 after kicking 62 goals for the East Coast Eagles to be the AFL Sydney Women's Premier Division's leading goalkicker.

However, McGartland cruelly suffered a broken hand and spent six weeks on the sidelines in the lead-up to the AFL Women's draft day.

Now, the 21-year-old is doing everything possible to make sure she doesn't let her chance slip in 2020.

"Unfortunately, just prior to last year's draft, I broke my hand and needed surgery," the goalkicking ace said.

"I wasn't allowed to put up my hand for that draft and I understood that. This season is definitely one where I'm going to knuckle down and hopefully have the same season I did last year, if not better.

"I really want to be able to present myself come draft time and maybe get the call up. Whatever it takes, I'm willing to do."

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While the injury was frustrating - and painful - at the time, McGartland believes the setback provided her with a big learning curve.

"Injury is part and parcel with the sport. But you think that sucks and think why does it happen to me," McGartland, who also plays football for Albion Park, said.

"But you cop it on the chin, worry about how you're going to fix it and do what you've got to do to get back out there. It definitely put a little more fire in my belly and a bit more spring in my step to be on the come back.

"Plus, who doesn't love a good comeback story?"

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