"Maybe because I am young in the sport and haven’t had the time to overcome those feelings like I did in football," Poulos said.

"If I ever had a penalty shoot-out in football I was excited and embraced that moment. 

"When it's just you and the barbell, there is no excuses or no hiding. It’s just do or don’t."

While Poulos has gone on to win Nationals in her weight class, it still not enough and the desire to the become an Olympian has been reignited. 

"Will I get there? Who knows, it’s very competitive out there," she said.

"Will I be content if I give it 100% and don’t make it? 100%... because I’ve given it my all."

In the meantime, Poulos is hoping to make the Australian team and despite being eligible for the Masters, she has her heart set on defying the odds. 

First up if the Arafura Games in Darwin next month, an event which will be her first international competition.