But the Kooringal High School has since drastically improved her on-field abilities and skyrocketed through the ranks, her rapid rise culminating in state selection.

Sophie was picked in the NSW development squad this week and will compete against the best in the country at the National Youth Championships next month.

Rather than viewing missing out on the primary state team as a disappointment, the upbeat young gun said playing for the development team was a great opportunity, adding that she could not wait to compete on the national stage.

“It’s very excited because I’ll be able to learn new skills from the other girls and the coaches will broaden my knowledge of touch,” she said.

“I do think my fitness level will have to increase though, to hold the standards of the competition.

Sophie is also an avid sprinter, regularly competing for the school in the 100 metres, 200 metres and hurdles.

Unsurprisingly, that natural ability makes her a prolific touch player, regularly using her stunning bursts of speed to wreak havoc on the wing.

The National Youth Championships will commence from September 13 in Caloundra, Queensland.