Essendon’s inaugural AFLW rookie signing Grace Brooker has made the challenging decision to part ways with the Club after one season. 

Due to NZ Rugby’s new expanded test schedule and a significant shuffling of fixtures, her rugby season will now align with key dates in the AFLW season as of 2026 - as a result, Brooker would’ve been unable to juggle both commitments next year. 

The 26-year-old will return to New Zealand to focus on the upcoming rugby union campaign, concluding a special chapter in her sporting journey.

In just eight months with the Bombers, Brooker grew from an untried project player into a frequent starter through the back end of the Season, taking on shutdown roles against the competition’s elite and establishing herself as a dependable teammate. 

Highlights among Brooker’s five games in the red and black included a round six debut against the Dockers out West, as well as a memorable bone-crunching tackle which led to a maiden AFLW goal against the Demons at IKON Park.

Brooker said the decision was one of the toughest she’s had to make, touching on the relationships she’s built and her overwhelmingly positive experience of being in the program this year. 

“It’s been a few sleepless nights tossing up the decision, it’s one I didn’t want to make so it’s very bittersweet,” Brooker said.

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AFLW Rd 8 | Tackling Bomber showcases rugby craft in cracking moment

Former New Zealand rugby player Grace Brooker transfers her skills with an explosive tackle and boots her first AFLW goal

“I am going to be very sad to leave the Club. It’s been amazing and I have nothing but positive things to say about the culture, the team, and especially the people within it.

“I’ve just loved every second of it. To run out and don the sash is an incredibly special moment that I’ll never forget and one I'll always cherish so highly in my memories."

GM – AFLW Aysha Ward thanked Brooker for her contributions to the Club, citing the lasting impression she’s left on her teammates in such a short period of time.

“To make the code switch and move countries was a massive step for Grace, she should be incredibly proud of what she was able to achieve in the AFLW this year,” Ward said. 

“Grace is a terrific character with high competitiveness and she applied every bit of that on the field. She’s had such a positive influence on our program and always set a great example for people around her.

“While we’re disappointed Grace can’t continue on with us next year, we’re fully supportive of her desire to return home and fulfill her rugby commitments. She’ll always be welcome back at the Bombers.”