Essendon will unveil another two AFLW debutants this week, with Jess Verbrugge and Amelie Gladman to line up for Friday night’s Dreamtime in Darwin clash.
The exciting news for the duo was announced to the playing group on Tuesday afternoon ahead of this week’s flight to the Northern Territory, where the side will be gunning for a 3-0 start to the year against rivals Richmond in the annual fixture.
Adding to the five Club debutants showcased in the opening round of 2025, Verbrugge and Gladman‘s inclusions continue to highlight the next generation of Dons footy at AFLW level, with several youngsters relishing their opportunities at the NEC Hangar.
Both signed as replacement players on the verge of the season, the early debuts are testament to their immediate impact and rapid development since joining the top flight.
In the case of Verbrugge, a young leader who’s fought hard for an elite level opportunity after dominating upon returning to East Perth as their WAFLW Co-Captain over the last two seasons, she’s grateful to be on the big stage in a huge night for herself and the Club.
“I’m super excited, but it hasn’t quite sunk in yet. I think once I’m on the plane tomorrow, it’ll all start to feel real,” Verbrugge said.
“The moment I found out was a shock, the girls got around me straight away and they were so loud. It was just such a happy moment I’ll always remember.
“It’s been a tough but rewarding journey, moving interstate, and grinding it out, but I’ve had incredible support from the Club, the girls, and especially my mum. Mum has never missed a game and has been with me every step of the way.”
For Gladman, the opportunity comes after enduring the setback of missing out in last year’s draft and plying her trade via Collingwood’s VFLW squad, where the Bombers kept a keen eye on the forward’s crafty work.
The 19-year-old is eager to live out her childhood dream under the Friday night lights.
“It still doesn’t feel real! I’m so excited and honestly just feel incredibly privileged to debut in Dreamtime,” Gladman said.
“The girls got around me straight away, hugging me, and I was just completely flooded with emotion. It’s been a bit of an unconventional journey, but the support from the Club, coaches, and especially the girls has made it so smooth.
“I’m just keen to bring my strengths on Friday night for the Dreamtime match, crack in, and have full trust in the team.”
The Dons take on Richmond from 7:15pm AEST at TIO Stadium on Friday night.
