Essendon VFLW has revealed a strong squad for Saturday’s season opener against Casey at Windy Hill.
The side features 14 players who represented the Bombers in last year’s inaugural side.
Reigning best-and-fairest winner Hayley Bullas has also been named in the squad, alongside fellow vice-captain Simone Nalder and leadership group members Kirby Hicks and Kendra Heil.
Several new players will make their debut in the red and black, including Erin Gogerly, Sian Wilson and Lori Stepnell.
Courtney Ugle will lead from the midfield in her first game as new captain.
The line-up also boasts two former AFLW players in Shae Audley (Carlton) and Maighan Fogas (Geelong).
Tiwi Islander rookie Arthurina Moreen (NT Thunder) has also been named, while fellow Tiwi young gun Jessica Stassi (NT Thunder) will be the 23rd player.
The Bombers will face Casey from 11:30am on Saturday in a double-header at Windy Hill, with limited tickets available to the VFL & VFLW President’s Luncheon at 11am.
Saturday’s match is also a part of Beyond Blue round, aimed at making mental health part of everyday conversations, with the Bombers to wear Beyond Blue strapping tape during the game.
24/7 help is available by calling 1300 224 636 or visiting beyondblue.org.au/getsupport
Essendon VFLW line-up:
Backs: | 7. Kirby Hicks | 11. Molly Warburton | 29. Chloe Laan |
Half-backs: | 21. Katherine McFadyen | 27. Alex Morcom | 18. Kendra Heil |
Centreline: | 1. Courtney Ugle (C) | 39. Maighan Fogas | 28. Ruby Svarc |
Half-forwards: | 25. Lori Stepnell | 23. Maddy Collier | 24. Sian Wilson |
Forwards: | 3. Monique DeMatteo | 38. Erin Gogerly | 40. Arthurina Moreen |
Followers: | 30. Simone Nalder (VC) | 22. Natalie MacDonald | 8. Hayley Bullas (VC) |
Interchange: | 2. Isabel Currenti | 13. Shae Audley | 43. Georgia Nanscawen |
| 4. Alex Saundry | ||
Emergencies: | 14. Tessa Zagantinos | 45. Eloise Ashley-Cooper | 15. Lauren Caruso |
| 33. Elizabeth Hosking | ||
23rd player: | 31. Jessica Stassi |
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Victoria Raptis is in the final year of her Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree at RMIT University. As part of their strategic partnership, Essendon Football Club and RMIT University are committed to providing opportunities for students, staff, players and the wider community.
