KATIE Brennan is a Tiger.

The former Western Bulldogs co-captain joined new AFLW team Richmond on Tuesday morning on a two-year deal.

The 26-year-old Brennan played 13 matches and kicked 15 goals for the Bulldogs from 2017-19 and is the Tigers' first AFLW signing.

Brennan said the move came after wanting a fresh start.

Her first two years at the Bulldogs saw her stuck on the sidelines more than on the field.

She played six out of a possible 15 games due to serious right ankle injuries, and had an ankle reconstruction last April.

"It was [an] incredibly difficult [decision]. You lose a lot of sleep for many nights trying to make a decision like this," Brennan said on Tuesday morning at Punt Road Oval
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"I have been part of the (Bulldogs) for a very long time and have worked with some really incredible people. So, this decision had to be made purely for the fact I need to have a fresh start for my football.

"I need to have a new challenge and a new environment to feel really excited to play the game again. It was super-challenging, and I thank [the Bulldogs] for everything I've been able to achieve at the club and all the support they've given me through particularly really challenging times.

"I'm really excited for a refreshing start and to build something really exciting here at Richmond."

Brennan's first run will come in the VFL Women’s competition, with Richmond's first game slated for May 11 against Darebin (her former VFL club) at Punt Road Oval.

"I've been having multiple conversations with Tommy (Hunter, the Tigers’ VFLW coach) already. I wanted to come in and start training this morning. I'm chomping at the bit to get out there, to get training and meet the VFLW team.

"I'm really excited to be part of the yellow and black and start the VFLW program as soon as possible."

Brennan was introduced to the Richmond AFL team by captain Trent Cotchin at the conclusion of the AFL players’ Tuesday morning training session.

"It's a very important day in our women's program," Cotchin said.

"It's exciting. She skippered the Bulldogs for the past three years, was instrumental in building the women's game to where it is today and it's a very, very exciting appointment for us.

"We look forward to bringing both the women's game and the men's game together in the future and continuing to build such a strong and united culture."

Richmond is yet to appoint its AFLW coach, with club president Peggy O'Neal indicating an announcement was still a way off.

"I'm not aware that there's anything on the near-term horizon right now."