All that stands between Essendon’s star recruit Bonnie Toogood living out her childhood dream of donning the Sash for the first time is 36 days.

The former Bulldog couldn't be more excited to kickstart an exciting inaugural chapter for the AFLW Bombers.

As the Bombers enter an already established competition in its seventh season, Toogood and the Dons are preparing to make their mark early.

And even more so, the lifelong Bombers supporter said she can’t wait to represent a guernsey she’s cherished all her life

“I pinched myself a bit (after being recruited to Essendon),” Toogood told Whately on SEN.

“I feel really grateful. It’s such an honour to put it on and then represent it (the sash) later on in August”.

The process of bringing together a brand-new list may seem daunting to some, but Toogood has lauded her side’s ability to come together.

The 24-year-old praised the club’s facilities as a key cornerstone in helping achieve a sense of unity amongst the playing group.

“It’s been a really amazing experience, the facilities out at Tullamarine are beautiful and first class,” Toogood said.

“I’ve really enjoyed the process of bringing a new group of 30 players together and setting the foundation to springboard off for this season.”

The anticipation of AFLW season seven was realised even more on Thursday morning when all 36 AFL and AFLW sides joined forces at the MCG for an historic photoshoot.

Toogood lauded the significance of unifying all 18 clubs with their affiliates as a significant moment for the game.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be able to connect as two representatives from the male and female programs of each club,” Toogood said.

“I think that connection and storytelling from each players is really special.

“It’s great for our game to be represented and everyone can play our great game.”

Essendon’s AFLW side will open its 2022 season on Saturday, August 27th against the Hawks at Port Melbourne’s ETU Stadium from 7:10pm.

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