Essendon have announced that Sophie Strong will make her AFLW debut in front of a home crowd this Sunday.
 
The news was announced to the playing group on Tuesday afternoon, making her the eighth Club debutant of the season.
 
Strong commenced her football journey in 2020, after being a gymnast for 13 years. This pivot saw her career taking a serious turn at the end of 2021, where she found her love for the game playing for the Tassie Devils. 
 
After an impressive stint in 2023, Strong’s draft year was tampered due to various ankle injuries. However, the Tasmanian’s two quality appearances in the Coates Talent League were enough to get drafted to Essendon as pick no.35 in the 2024 AFLW Draft. 
 
Strong’s first AFLW pre-season included a lingering back injury, but she stayed steadfast through rehab and recovery.
 
Despite the setback, the small forward’s hard work and the support of her teammates and coaches have brought her to this point, ready to live out her dream in front of a home crowd.
 
Primed to bring her athleticism and incredible speed to the big stage, Strong shares her gratitude for the opportunity.
 
"I'm so excited. It's been a long journey to get here and I'm super keen to finally get to play with the girls that I've been training with for the past couple of months," Strong said. 
 
"The support from the playing group has been amazing. I’ve had so many role models on and off the field since joining the Bombers, which has really helped me. 
 
"Everyone I got drafted with have slotted into the team really well, so hopefully I can do the same on Sunday."
 
The Dons will face the Cats from 3:05pm AEST this Sunday at Windy Hill.