SYDNEY has taken its inaugural AFLW list to 25 players with the signing of Alana Woodward and former rugby player Tiarne Cavanagh. 

Woodward was signed as a delisted free agent after being axed by St Kilda last month. The midfielder played seven games for the Saints and Richmond. 

"We were looking for athletes who had experience both on-field and off-field, and Alana fitted that mould," Swans head coach Scott Gowans said. 

"Alana has a great overall character, and while she's had her share of setbacks, in a testament to her fortitude she's gone back to the VFL and had an elite season. She really took her game to a new level as a midfielder, getting 20 to 30 possessions a game." 

Cavanagh has been signed as a cross-code rookie, with a background in rugby. Expected to play as a midfielder or on the wing, Cavanagh's athleticism is what drew the Swans to her. 

"Obviously coming from a rugby background she still needs to learn the game, but we believe she has great foundations in her athleticism and skill to be a successful AFLW player. It's easier to develop skill than it is to develop athleticism," Gowans said. 

Sydney will take picks 1, 5, 11, 12, 13, 44, 61, 79 and 97 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11 and 13 in NSW) into the NAB AFLW Draft on June 29, with two picks already slated to take Montana Beruldsen and Alice Mitchell. 

Pies hand lifeline to 'tall and small' Tiger

COLLINGWOOD has extended a lifeline to delisted Tiger Sarah Sansonetti, signing her through Delisted Free Agency on Monday. 

Sansonetti was drafted with pick No.40 ahead of the 2020 season, and played 17 of a possible 25 games with Richmond, including all 10 this year. 

“As a good utility, Sarah has the ability to play both tall and small,” Collingwood head of women’s football Jess Burger said. 

“She has untouched potential and we look forward to being a part of her next journey as a Magpie and assisting in her development in our environment.” 

Sansonetti rounds out Collingwood’s signings before the upcoming draft on June 29th.

Essendon has also added to its stocks via Delisted Free Agency, with premiership forward Jess Wuetschner joining the inaugural list. 

Wuetschner has played 38 games over six seasons and kicked 37 goals in the process, earning an All-Australian guernsey in 2018. 

“With 38 games of AFLW experience, including a premiership, someone of Jess’ calibre joining our squad will be extremely influential on our young group and she will be a fantastic asset to our team,” Essendon AFLW contract manager Georgia Harvey said. 

Eagles add hard-running mid, delisted Saint heads north

WEST Coast has added to its outside running stocks with former Kangaroo and Demon Emma Humphries making the trip west. 

As reported by womens.afl, Humphries has been playing VFLW for Hawthorn and becomes the Eagles' fourth and final priority signing before the NAB AFLW Draft later this month. 

"She can play either in the midfield or up forward, with her versatility in this area a real selling point," head coach Michael Prior said of Humphries. 

"Emma has had a great year in Hawthorn's VFLW team and has pieced together some really consistent performances." 

Meanwhile, another delisted Saint has found a new home as Tahlia Meyer heads north to Gold Coast. 

Meyer, a strong runner, has played 10 games over the last two seasons at St Kilda and was targeted by the Suns to add speed to the side. 

"We went into this year's Sign and Trade Period with a clear strategy to continue to improve our list which we’ve been able to do with the addition of Tahlia," Gold Coast head of women's football Fiona Sessarago said. 

"She also joins the Suns with two years of AFLW experience which will add value to our exciting core group of players." 

Meyer joins Courtney Jones and priority trio Gabrielle Biedenweg-Webster, Georgia Clayden and Krystal Scott as additions to the Suns' playing list in recent weeks. 

Essendon has also added to its inaugural list, with VFLW Bomber and former Sun Alana Barba joining as a delisted free agent, while Port Melbourne VFLW defender Olivia Barton has also been recruited. 

"Alana is a fierce competitor who can rotate from onball to up forward and tackles hard," Essendon AFLW contract manager Georgia Harvey said. 

"Olivia is competitive, agile through congestion and will bring a lot defensively to our team structure. Both players are young, determined, and welcome additions to our AFLW side." 

Hawks add delisted Saints speedster to inaugural list

HAWTHORN has extended a lifeline to delisted Saint Kate McCarthy. 

Adding the speedster via delisted free agency, McCarthy brings her 39 games of experience at both St Kilda and Brisbane to the Hawks' inaugural list, whereby she reunites with former Lions teammate Kaitlyn Ashmore and Saints midfielder Tilly Lucas-Rodd. 

"Kate is an established leader and footballer in the AFLW and we're pleased she has decided to join Hawthorn on our AFLW journey," Hawthorn list manager Mitch Cashion said. 

"She's a crafty utility who can burn off her opponent in a flash, which will provide an exciting prospect for Hawks fans." 

McCarthy joins impressive VFLW midfielder Tamara Smith in signing with Hawthorn on Thursday. 

Power welcome another Teakle

PORT Adelaide has added Julia Teakle – the cousin of recent mid-season Power recruit Brynn – to its AFLW side.

The 18-year-old has played for East Fremantle in the WAFLW this year, having previously lined up for Northampton at local level.

Teakle is a forward who can also move through the midfield, and coach Lauren Arnell said she will add to the young talent already in the side.

"Julia is a skilled footballer with plenty of natural talent who has experienced lots of team and personal success over the past few years," Arnell said.

"She was unlucky to not be picked up in the draft last year, but we are particularly excited about what she has to offer. It's clear she has a bright future ahead of her and she will grow and develop really well in our system."

Hawks nab VFLW tackle machine

HAWTHORN has signed Geelong VFLW ball-winner Tamara Smith.

The 22-year-old was her side’s best in the recent exhibition match between the Under-23 All Stars and the NAB AFLW Academy, and also leads the VFLW in tackles.

"Tamara’s pressure around the ball is elite and she is tough and competitive, despite being slightly undersized in the midfield," Hawthorn list manager Mitch Cashion said.

"She is also clearly the best tackler in the VFLW competition and she has a point to prove at this level."

Hawks continue list build

HAWTHORN has made three further additions to its inaugural AFLW list, headlined by former Demon defender Ainslie Kemp. 

Kemp, who has worked her way back to the field after three ACL tears, was delisted by Melbourne in 2020. Joining the Hawks as a runner for the 2021 VFLW season, Kemp returned to play this year, and was immediately added to the club's leadership group. 

“Ainslie is a resilient person who drives high standards in the backline,” Hawthorn AFLW List Manager Mitchell Cashion said. 

Midfielder Isabelle Porter joins fellow Northern Territory recruits Eliza Shannon, Janet Baird, and Dominique Carbone at the Hawks. Meanwhile former A-League Women's player Catherine Brown has made the switch to footy and is seen to be a promising utility who has played predominantly in defence this VFLW season. 

The trio takes Hawthorn's list build to 19 players, closing in on the 30-player cap. 

AFLW dreams realised for SANFLW star, former VFLW Roo

PORT ADELAIDE has added more talent to its inaugural AFLW side, with local Alex Ballard and Victorian Liz McGrath offered places on its list. 

Ballard, sister of Gold Coast men's player Charlie, is a handy half-back who makes good decisions and reads the game well.  

“She has come through the SANFLW pathway with Sturt and was unlucky to be overlooked in the draft. Having a second South Australian team really opens up opportunities for local players. We’re really excited to welcome her into our environment," head coach Lauren Arnell said of Ballard. 

McGrath has been playing as a ruck for North Melbourne's VFLW side this year after two seasons at Williamstown, while continuing her day job as a social worker. 

“Liz has been in an environment at North Melbourne where she has really developed her ruck craft and she has that natural competitiveness that you can’t really teach players,” Arnell said. 

“She has a strong contested mark and has had a consistent and outstanding VFLW season. She’s a well-rounded player and person. We love that she’s a social worker and she shows genuine care for her teammates.” 

WA duo heading to Port

PORT Adelaide has added West Australian talent Abbey Dowrick and Tessa Doumanis to its inaugural squad.

Dowrick, the younger sister of Adelaide’s McKenzie, had a few star-studded years in the junior ranks, representing her state at just 15 in the Under-18 Championships.

The Subiaco midfielder – who turns 20 later this year –  also played a handful of games for SANFLW side Woodville-West Torrens this year in order to boost her chance of getting signed by an expansion club.

Forward Doumanis has been in the mix for AFLW selection for a few years, and has a multi-sport background with volleyball, tennis and basketball under her belt.

The 22-year-old only picked up football at 17, and has spent the past few years developing with Claremont.

North Melbourne has also confirmed Irish duo Vikki Wall and Erika O’Shea will be in the stripes next season, as previously reported by womens.afl.

Ready-to-go trio put pen to paper at the Hangar

ESSENDON has signed an additional three open-age players, including former Blue and Lion Bella Ayre.

Ayre, 23, played 12 games for Carlton and Brisbane between 2017 and 2019 before taking some time away from the game. The 176cm utility played for Essendon’s VFLW side this year.

She will be joined by last year’s Essendon best and fairest Eloise Ashley-Cooper and key forward Renee Tierney on the Bombers’ senior list.

Ashley-Cooper, 21, is a strong ball-winner across the midfield and backline, while key forward Tierney has come through the Geelong talent pathways and represented Vic Country at Under-19 level last year.

Power lock in duo

PORT Adelaide has signed open-age forwards Jade De Melo and Jade Halfpenny.

De Melo, 29, played two games for Fremantle in 2018 in her one season as a Dockers rookie, and has impressed for North Adelaide in the SANFLW, kicking three goals in Sunday's Grand Final.

Twenty-year-old Halfpenny was overlooked in her draft year of 2020, but has worked hard at Norwood to secure her AFLW chance, including topping the team's disposal count this year.

The 176cm tall will partner the likes of Gemma Houghton and Erin Phillips in attack.

Speedy Pie among three new Swans signings

QUICK Collingwood forward Aliesha Newman is heading north, taking up an opportunity to join Sydney's inaugural AFLW list for season seven. 

Newman kicked 16 goals across her 39 games at Collingwood and Melbourne and is best known for a stunning goal on the run from the tightest of angles which saw her win Goal of the Year in 2018. 

"Newy is a much-loved member of our program and has not only been a valued member of the team but has also made a significant contribution in the club's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community programs," Collingwood Head of Women's Football Jess Burger said of Newman's departure. 

"We thank her for her time with us and wish her the best with her new chapter at the Swans." 

Newman is joined by local recruit Kiara Beesley and former North Melbourne and Gold Coast tall Lexi Hamilton in joining the Swans. 

Beesley, with a background in gymnastics and standing at 172cm tall, is a versatile swing player, while coach Scott Gowans anticipates Hamilton to become a reliable defensive option for the Swans. 

Suns, Power head to trade table for livewire

GOLD Coast and Port Adelaide will move to the trade table for livewire Kate Surman.

The sparky midfielder/forward is an inaugural Sun, and has played 26 games over three seasons.

She averaged 10.6 disposals and kicked four goals this season.

The Suns will exceed their maximum of three players moving to expansion sides, hence why Surman needs a trade to make the move.

The two sides are awaiting the final draft order – set to be released on Tuesday morning – before working on the finer details.

Dons land key Dogs back

ESSENDON has secured the services of Western Bulldogs key back Ellyse Gamble.

Gamble, 24, is an inaugural Dog who has played 24 games for the club over six injury-affected seasons.

The 180cm Tasmanian will be joining teammate Bonnie Toogood at the Bombers, and looks set to line up alongside Danielle Marshall and Sophie Alexander in defence.

The expansion signing period closed at 2pm on Monday.

Dog and Tiger heading North

SYDNEY has announced two more additions to its inaugural AFLW team, with Western Bulldogs vice captain Brooke Lochland and Richmond's Sarah Dargan moving north. 

Both players can play in the middle of the ground and also impact in attack, with Lochland famously holding the record for most goals in a game with seven. 

“It is a bittersweet feeling to be moving clubs, but I am looking forward to the next chapter of my life in Sydney with a great job opportunity and the chance to build a life for myself post-football," Lochland told the Western Bulldogs club website. 

On Dargan, new coach Scott Gowans noted the value of her footy IQ and kicking efficiency. 

“She is a good user of the ball, has a high disposal efficiency and is willing to apply defensive pressure." 

Lochland and Dargan join experienced players Bec Privitelli, Lisa Steane and Brenna Tarrant in moving to the Swans in recent weeks. 

Another Docker departs for expansion side

A THIRD Fremantle player has been lured by expansion, with developing utility Maggie MacLachlan joining Gemma Houghton at Port Adelaide. 

Originally added to the list as an inactive player replacement, MacLachlan made her debut in tricky circumstances this year as health and safety protocols caused Fremantle to make several last-minute changes for its game against Melbourne. 

Alongside MacLachlan and Houghton, winger Steph Cain has departed the Dockers for Essendon. 

"Joining Port Adelaide is a new, different and exciting opportunity and I was ready for a change," MacLachlan said.

"I love that there is a strong female leadership team in place at the club. I have spoken to (head coach) Lauren (Arnell) and feel really good about learning from her and playing under her."

Suns skipper to Port Adelaide a Dunn deal

PORT Adelaide has added yet more experience to its inaugural AFLW list, with Gold Coast captain Hannah Dunn heading south. 

A defender at heart, Dunn has played through the midfield for much of her time at Gold Coast, running out for 24 games since joining the club with pick No.22 in the 2019 NAB AFLW Draft. 

Dunn, 30, joins Sarah Perkins and Janet Baird in exiting the Suns for expansion clubs, with the latter duo joining Hawthorn. 

The signing is a massive coup for Port Adelaide, which has also nabbed the likes of Erin Phillips, Gemma Houghton and Justine Mules ahead of its first season.

After being delisted by GWS following the 2017 season, Dunn excelled during a second chance with the Suns.

"I've lived in Adelaide before and I loved it so I'm excited to be back," she said.

"The program Port Adelaide is building is amazing and that's one of the things that really attracted me to the club.

"Being around an amazing club with such a rich history is so exciting. It's also so cool being in a footy state – people in South Australia just love footy and I can't wait to be a part of that. The fact that there's such a big fanbase here and they care so much about the club, I think that’s really exciting to be able to experience that."

Dons snag Saints duo, Roos sharpshooter

ESSENDON has reached the halfway point of its signings ahead of its inaugural AFLW season, adding even more experience. 

Cat Phillips and Jacqui Vogt (St Kilda) will join Sophie Van De Heuvel (Geelong) and Daria Bannister (North Melbourne) at the Hangar, while Carlton VFLW ruck Jorja Borg has also committed to the club. 

The quintet join notable signings Bonnie Toogood, Steph Cain and Maddy Prespakis at the Bombers for season seven.

The departures of Phillips and Vogt are the latest blow for the Saints, who have already lost important midfielder Tilly Lucas-Rodd to Hawthorn.

Meanwhile Bannister is the third Kangaroo out the door, informing the club that she will join Essendon’s inaugural list after 25 games and 14 goals. Lexi Hamilton and Jess Duffin have also left North Melbourne for expansion sides. 

Multi-talented Irishwoman heading Hawks' way

HAWTHORN is set to sign multi-talented Irishwoman Aine McDonagh to its inaugural list.

McDonagh plays Gaelic football for County Galway as a half-forward and midfielder and is also a basketballer with NUIG Mystics.

Womens.afl understands a few final details need to be ironed out, but McDonagh will be donning the brown and gold next season.

McDonagh will be the Hawks’ first female Irish player, with Conor Nash and Fionn O’Hara also in Hawthorn's AFL men's squad.

Top Cat heads to the Hangar

CLASSY winger Sophie Van De Heuvel has informed Geelong that she will leave the club via expansion this off season.  

Van De Heuvel was taken with draft pick No.2 ahead of Geelong's inaugural season in 2019 and has played 31 games across four seasons. 

Womens.afl understands that Van De Heuvel will reunite with former Geelong AFLW assistant coach and VFLW head coach Natalie Wood at Essendon. 

Young Demon heading home to WA

SMALL forward Krstel Petrevski has informed Melbourne of her decision to head back to her home state of Western Australia. 

Petrevski has played four games for Melbourne, debuting in the club’s first-ever final in 2020. 

Womens.afl believes she will look to join West Coast to help bolster their forward line. A trade will be facilitated between the clubs once the official Trade and Sign period opens. 

Petrevski joins Brenna Tarrant and Jackie Parry exiting the Demons this off-season. 

Lion and Pie confirm Power switch

PORT Adelaide has confirmed Brisbane premiership key defender Indy Tahau and Collingwood midfielder Ebony O’Dea will line up in teal next season.

As reported by womens.afl yesterday, O’Dea will return home to South Australia to link up with the Power, having spent 2019 on GWS’ list and playing 21 games for Collingwood over the past three seasons.

Tahau played her junior and representative footy in South Australia, before being drafted to Brisbane to re-join family in the state ahead of the 2021 season.

She will be reuniting with fellow ex-Lion Maria Moloney, while the 19-year-old has also played alongside new coach Lauren Arnell.

North ruck headed to Sydney

YOUNG North Melbourne ruck Lexi Hamilton is set to land at Sydney.

The Canberra product will be at her third club, having played one game for Gold Coast in 2020 before signing with the Kangaroos as an injury-replacement player this year.

The 21-year-old (whose full first name is Alexia) impressed for the Roos at VFLW level, and played two AFLW games in 2022.

Younger sister Cynthia, a midfielder, is set to be a top draftee in the NSW pool this year.

"Although Lexi has only been with us for a short time, her work-ethic and attitude this season were terrific, and will no doubt hold her in great stead in the AFLW moving forward," North Melbourne AFLW football performance and list manager Rhys Harwood said.

"With increased levels of player movement, we understand Lexi’s decision to pursue another opportunity, and thank her for her service to North Melbourne."

Saints set to land All-Australian Giant

ALL-AUSTRALIAN Giant Erin McKinnon has requested a trade to St Kilda after 41 games in the orange and charcoal. 

Should she land at the Saints, the ruck will help ease the burden of Rhiannon Watt’s absence due to an ACL injury sustained late in the season. 

"We're really pleased to hear that Erin has expressed interest in joining us for the season ahead," St Kilda head of AFLW Tess McManus told the club website.

"There is still some ground to cover, but we look forward to working with the Giants with the goal of welcoming Erin to the Saints as soon as possible."

The 23-year-old was a member of the Giants' inaugural side in 2017, earning NAB Rising Star honours in her debut season.

Defender Libby Graham has requested a trade to Richmond after two seasons and six games with the Giants.

Another famous name joins Port Adelaide

PHILLIPS isn’t the only famous name returning to Port Adelaide as part of its inaugural AFLW list build, with twins Laquoiya and Litonya Cockatoo-Motlap committing to the club. 

The pair's uncle is former Port Adelaide forward Che Cockatoo-Collins. 

Despite possessing similar attributes, Litonya plays largely across the half-back line, while Laquoiya is a handy forward pocket. 

They are the first players to commit to Port Adelaide without previous AFLW experience, with the club previously announcing Erin Phillips, Justine Mules, Angela Foley, Maria Moloney and Gemma Houghton.  

Magpies confirm duo will explore options

COLLINGWOOD has confirmed three changes to its AFLW list. 

Forward Bella Smith will take up an opportunity at an expansion club, reported to be Sydney by womens.afl earlier this month. Smith has a connection with the Pies' former assistant coach Scott Gowans who has taken the reins at the Swans. 

Midfielder Ebony O'Dea has expressed a desire to return to her home state of South Australia, while untried rookie Imogen Purcell has not been offered a contract for season seven after two years on the list. 

O'Dea is believed to be heading to Port Adelaide, as is young Brisbane defender Indy Tahau.

Dockers see off rival interest to lock in gun winger

A WEEK after losing spearhead Gemma Houghton to Port Adelaide, Fremantle has seen off strong interest from rival clubs to re-secure integral winger Ebony Antonio.

Antonio had been linked with the Victorian expansion sides but has chosen to remain in Western Australia.

The 30-year-old announced she had recommitted to the Dockers on a two-year deal at the club's best and fairest on Saturday.

"I've been here since year one and I'm excited to have signed on for another couple of years," Antonio said.

"I'm looking forward to being a Docker for life."

Fremantle has also lost Steph Cain to Essendon, while Ann McMahon and Tiah Toth have been delisted and Jasmin Stewart has stepped away from the game.

Crow wants Docker move

FORMER Adelaide first-round pick Nikki Gore has requested a trade to Fremantle.

Gore, 21, has played 21 games in attack and defence, sitting out much of 2021 with a broken ankle.

She was part of the Crows' 2022 premiership side.

The Dockers have lost winger Steph Cain to expansion side Essendon, and Gore has the ability to fill that position if required.

"Nikki is a premiership player who is yet to reach her peak and we have invested heavily in her development," Adelaide head of women's football Phil Harper said.

"She is an outstanding character who will be missed by her teammates, however we understand her desire for more midfield time.

"We have already begun discussions with Fremantle and will provide our members and fans with an update when the Sign and Trade period starts."

Young Magpie flies the coop, Bombers add four more

YOUNG Collingwood tall Bella Smith is set to sign with Sydney, while Essendon has added three former AFLW players to its list.

Womens.afl understands the versatile Smith, 20, is set to reunite with former Magpies senior assistant coach Scott Gowans at the Swans.

Originally from South Australia and capable of playing at either end or in the ruck, she has played 10 games over her two seasons at the Pies.

The Bombers have promoted former Lion Jordan Zanchetta and current VFLW leading goalkicker Federica Frew to its AFLW list as open-age signings.

Also joining the pair are international players Danielle Marshall (US, Western Bulldogs 2020-21) and Joanne Doonan (Ireland, Carlton 2020).

Doonan returned to Ireland after her delisting, but came back to Australia this year as pandemic borders eased, and the two have also been playing for the Bombers VFLW team.

"Our VFLW program has been building year on year and this season in particular is about two objectives - achieving team success and individual improvement," Essendon head of footy Josh Mahoney said.

"We have seen and are seeing both each week, with our team currently undefeated and a number of players having career-best seasons.

"We are excited to give four of our players the opportunity to represent Essendon in the AFLW and watch them develop further."

Former Demon comes out of retirement to join Hawks

FORMER Melbourne key forward Tegan Cunningham has come out of retirement, signing with Hawthorn.

Cunningham had nominated for last year's NAB AFLW Draft after retiring earlier that year – where she was heavily linked to North Melbourne – and has been playing VFLW with Hawthorn this season.

The 34-year-old has spent increased time in the ruck this year, and kicked 25 goals from her 32 games for the Dees.

The Hawks have also signed former AFLW Academy member Eliza Shannon.

The 22-year-old defender has played her footy around the country, starting with Geelong Falcons, lining up for St Mary's in the NTFLW and most recently with the Hawks VFLW program.

"Eliza has really impressed us with her competitiveness and work rate," Hawthorn list manager Mitch Cashion said.

"After stepping away from football for a few years, she has now rediscovered her passion for the game and returned better than ever.

"She is a very versatile defender who can play on tall and small players while winning the ball both on the ground and in the air."

Swans add two more for inaugural team

SYDNEY has added open-age signing Jaide Anthony to its inaugural list, while young Melbourne key Brenna Tarrant has also officially committed to the club.

As previously reported by womens.afl, New South Wales local Tarrant had been set to request a trade to the Swans, having struggled to hold her spot in Melbourne's strong side this year.

Anthony was somewhat surprisingly overlooked in last year's NAB AFLW Draft, and has spent this year splitting her time between NAB League side Dandenong Stingrays as an over-age player and VFLW side Hawthorn.

Both players can line up at either end of the field, with Anthony a mid-sized prospect standing at 166cm, while Tarrant is taller at 173cm.

At this early stage, Sydney has been the most active of the expansion clubs, adding AFLW players Bec Privitelli, Maddy Collier, Lisa Steane and Ally Morphett, but missing out on Ellie Blackburn and Ash Riddell, among other offers put forward.

Open-age signings Ruby Sargent-Wilson, Alice Mitchell, Sarah Ford, Molly Eastman, Lauren Szigeti, Aimee Whelan, Montana Beruldsen, Zoe Hurrell and Ella Heads have also joined the Swans.

Wantaway Lion lands at Power

PORT Adelaide has landed wantaway Brisbane midfielder Maria Moloney.

As reported by womens.afl, the Power had been linked to the 27-year-old, who had previously played with new coach Lauren Arnell and had informed the Lions she was looking for opportunities elsewhere.

Moloney has played 11 games in her three seasons with the Lions, struggling to break into the strong 21 and named emergency eight times this year alone.

The hard-running midfielder joins Erin Phillips, Ange Foley and Justine Mules as current AFLW players at the expansion club.

A member of the Royal Australian Air Force, Moloney will transfer to Adelaide's base.

"Maria will be a fantastic addition to our squad," Arnell said.

"We really wanted Maria here from the very beginning to help establish the culture of the women’s program. She always holds herself with integrity and has that ‘never give in’ attitude. I’m excited to see her back herself in and take this opportunity, because she has the self-confidence and self-belief to make this move a success.

"She is super competitive, hardworking and has enormous running capacity. Her selfless, team-first approach is exactly why we want her here at Port Adelaide. She’s done the hard work and has really earned it."

Future Hawk cleared of serious injury

HAWTHORN signing Zoe Barbakos has escaped serious injury after hurting her knee in the VFLW last week.

The young forward was stretchered off the field after the incident.

"Zoe was cleared of any major structural damage and we anticipate that she will join pre-season with the rest of the players and be available for the start of the season," AFLW high performance manager Olivia Knowles told womens.afl.

Triple premiership Crow flies the nest

THREE-TIME premiership Crow Justine Mules is the latest Adelaide player to leave the club and join expansion side Port Adelaide.

The Crows confirmed on Thursday that the 27-year-old forward/winger had informed the club of her decision to join a "rival club", with Port Adelaide later confirming Mules' commitment to the Power.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic, just so ready to be on board and I’m really looking forward to supporting the younger players coming through over the next few months,” Mules said in a statement.

“I came for a tour last week through the clubrooms, and to see the memorabilia and history on display here is just so exciting. For us girls to now be a part of that is just the next step toward chasing greatness for this club.”

Mules joins former Adelaide teammates Erin Phillips and Ange Foley at Port.

“I’ve looked up to Erin and Ange while they were in the leadership group at the Crows,” Mules said.

“It’s just an absolute honour to be able continue playing with Erin, and Ange Foley is an absolute weapon and I love her leadership style.”

Adelaide's head of women's football Phil Harper said Mules' departure is a great loss for the club, but thanked her for her contribution to the Crows.

“It is obviously disappointing to lose someone like Justine who has been such a strong contributor for us on the field,” Harper said.

“She’s been a popular member of our squad and played an integral role in laying the foundations for our women’s team and playing in all three of our Club’s Premierships. We will miss her infectious smile and vibrant personality around our Club.

“However, having four more teams enter the competition next season – a move that our Club supported –meant that there was always going to be some player movement and these types of scenarios.

“As a Club, we are proud to have helped and been part of the growth of women’s football, particularly here in South Australia, to this point.”

Harper said that the majority of Adelaide's 2022 premiership group had made verbal commitments to the Crows ahead of next season.

“We know that creating a winning culture goes a long way to retaining the core of your list and we have been able to consistently do that over the past six seasons,” Harper said.

“The Club is working with our players and we believe our list management strategy will continue to deliver sustained on-field success.”

Pies forward the latest to head to the Hangar

COLLINGWOOD key forward Sophie Alexander is the latest AFLW player to officially commit with expansion club Essendon.

The 28-year-old has played 31 games over four years at Collingwood, having earned her way onto a senior list through the Pies' VFLW affiliate.

She is set to join fellow tall forwards Bonnie Toogood (Western Bulldogs) and Caitlin Sargent (Western Jets) at Tullamarine, and can also play in defence if required.

"Sophie is another great addition to our AFLW side, " Essendon head of football Josh Mahoney said.

"Since swapping over from basketball she has worked hard to develop her game, which reflects her strong work ethic and determination to improve.

"She will be a great asset and will contribute to our club standards on and off the field."

Alexander is the only player Collingwood has lost to expansion clubs thus far, and the Pies look likely to hang onto Sarah Rowe, Ruby Schleicher and Brit Bonnici (interest from Sydney) and Jaimee Lambert (interest from Hawthorn).

In other news, Hawthorn has signed tenacious young midfielder Dominique Carbone from its VFLW program.

The 20-year-old Carbone, who hails from Darwin and is also a strong basketballer, has played with the Hawks for the past two seasons.

Lion looks for opportunity elsewhere

Brisbane midfielder Maria Moloney has told the club she wishes to pursue an opportunity at a rival AFLW club.

The 27-year-old has played 11 games over three seasons, and was an emergency eight times this year, struggling to break into the preliminary finalist's side.

A strong runner and good ball-winner, rival clubs believe Moloney could be a chance to land at Port Adelaide, given former teammate Lauren Arnell has been appointed senior coach.

"Maria is a high-quality person and player who has been unlucky not to have had more opportunity in such a strong side over the last couple of seasons," Brisbane coach Craig Starcevich said.

"We’re sure she’ll be a great asset on and off the field at her new club.

"We’d like to thank her and wish her all the best for the future."

Crows leader jumps ship

FORMER Adelaide vice-captain Ange Foley will join Port Adelaide for its inaugural season.

Foley, 33, sat out the 2022 NAB AFLW season after rupturing her ACL in the 2021 Grand Final loss, where she was acting captain.

The reliable half-back flanker – who has 40 AFLW games under her belt since joining the Crows as a priority player in 2016 – has since made her return to footy with SANFLW side Sturt.

"I'm really excited to start a new chapter of my football career," Foley said.

EXPANSION LIST RULES How the four new clubs can sign players

"It's nice to be part of something that is so fresh and new, I'm really looking forward to being on board.

"It will be great to have a new environment to hopefully take my footy to the next level and to also help the group by being a leader, after being part of the leadership group at the Crows. I want to bring some experience and leadership here to Port Adelaide."

Foley is Port Adelaide's second player announcement, following that of superstar Erin Phillips earlier this week.

Dockers speedster joins Dons

ESSENDON has swooped on pacy Fremantle winger Steph Cain, who has committed to signing with the expansion club.

Cain has been an integral part of the Dockers' strong midfield, with her endurance, pace and pinpoint passes a feature.

She has played 32 games since her debut in 2017, re-earning her way back onto the list after being delisted at the conclusion of that year, and also missed a season with a torn ACL.

Cain, 25, could form a fearsome combination with ex-Blue Georgia Gee on the opposing wing.

"Steph is another great addition to the club. She comes from a strong program at Fremantle and will contribute to the culture and environment we are building within our club," Essendon general manager of football Josh Mahoney said. 

"We understand the significant commitment that Steph is making by moving across the country to join us and trusting that we will be putting all the resources around her to make Victoria feel like home and maximise her as a player."

The dates for the Sign and Trade Period are yet to be confirmed, with the AFL and AFLPA currently negotiating a Collective Bargaining Agreement for the upcoming season, expected to start in August.

Blues midfielder set to return to Tigerland

CARLTON midfielder Grace Egan is set to return to Richmond.

It's understood that Egan, who was recruited from the Tigers' VFLW program, informed the Blues that she would be heading back to Punt Road during the sign and trade period on Thursday night.

Richmond had been eligible to sign Egan as an open-age player in its initial list build when it entered the competition as an expansion club in 2020, but passed up on the opportunity and allowed Carlton to select her through the NAB AFLW Draft.

She has since played 23 games for the Blues, averaging 14.4 disposals and 3.3 tackles per game last season, but has long been tipped to leave the club during the upcoming exchange window.

Egan's departure from Carlton follows that of three-time best and fairest Madison Prespakis and talented forward Georgia Gee to expansion side Essendon. As earlier reported, forward Nicola Stevens is also garnering interest from St Kilda.

However, the Blues have staved off expansion interest in captain Kerryn Harrington and NAB AFLW Rising Star winner Mimi Hill, with fellow youngster Lucy McEvoy also tipped to re-sign at Ikon Park.

Overlooked forward gets her shot at Bombers

CAITLIN Sargent has become the fifth player to commit to joining Essendon's inaugural AFLW team. 

Overlooked in last year's draft, the key forward is strong overhead and reliable in front of goal, kicking 21 goals from 10 games for the Western Jets this year. 

Sargent joins Essendon VFLW captain Georgia Nanscawen on the Bombers' AFLW list, while Maddy Prespakis, Georgia Gee and Bonnie Toogood have each indicated their intentions to join the club. 

Demon heading north

MELBOURNE youngster Brenna Tarrant is set to request a trade to New South Wales.

Womens.afl understands Tarrant has asked the Demons if she can return to her home state ahead of next season, with expansion side Sydney the early frontrunners to secure her signature.

Tarrant, 20, has played 15 games and made three finals appearances for Melbourne across the last three seasons, but wasn't part of the Demons' team that ultimately qualified for their first ever AFLW Grand Final last weekend.

Elsewhere, fellow expansion side Hawthorn is expected to lock away the signing of Gold Coast youngster Janet Baird on a two-year deal. The 22-year-old has played just three games for the club across the last two seasons.

But the Suns are expected to retain Kalinda Howarth. The talented 22-year-old had garnered attention from rival clubs ahead of this year's sign and trade period, but is set to remain at Metricon Stadium on a two-year deal. 

Giant exodus: Third GWS player expected to sign with Sydney

LISA Steane has become the third Giant to tell the club that she will be looking to join Sydney through expansion this off season. 

Midfielder Steane has played 19 games over three seasons at GWS, including nine this year. 

Beginning her AFLW career playing off half back for the Giants in 2020, Steane has been used in a variety of roles by the club since.  

Steane joins Rebecca Privitelli in requesting a move to the expansion side, while it's understood young ruck Ally Morphett will also cross to the Swans.  

The Swans confirmed the Privitelli news, while also announcing the signing of locals Zoe Hurrell and Ella Heads. 

"I've worked with Scotty previously and when I saw he was going to be head coach it was a massive part of my attraction to the club," Privitelli told the Swans' website. 

Due to Morphett being drafted last year, it's expected that Sydney will have to negotiate a trade with its crosstown rivals – rather than sign her as a free agent – in order to complete the deal.

PLAYER MOVEMENT

• Bella Ayre one of three open-age signings for Essendon
• Jade De Melo and Jade Halfpenny sign on at Port Adelaide
• Aliesha Newman (Collingwood) is one of three new signings for Sydney
• Brooke Lochland (Western Bulldogs) and Sarah Dargan (Richmond) will join Sydney
• Maggie MacLachlan has joined Port Adelaide from Fremantle
• Captain Hannah Dunn has departed Gold Coast to join Port Adelaide
• Sophie Van De Heuvel will leave Geelong and head to Essendon
• Krstel Petrevski will leave Melbourne and head to a WA club
• Gun forward Sarah Perkins and defender Louise Stephenson will join Hawthorn
• North Melbourne's Lexi Hamilton was requested a trade to an expansion club
• Greater Western Sydney ruck Erin McKinnon has requested a trade to St Kilda
• Brisbane's Indy Tahau will move to Port Adelaide
• Collingwood's Ebony O'Dea will move to Port Adelaide
• Premiership-winning Crow Nikki Gore requests a trade to Fremantle
• Collingwood youngster Bella Smith is set to join Sydney
• Former Dee Tegan Cunningham has come out of retirement to join Hawthorn
• Gemma Houghton has committed to Port Adelaide
• Justine Mules will move to Port Adelaide
• Sophie Alexander will move from Collingwood to Essendon as an expansion player
• Maria Moloney has requested a move to Port Adelaide
• Erin Phillips and Ange Foley will make the switch to Port Adelaide
• Stephanie Cain has requested a move to expansion side Essendon
• Grace Egan is set to return to Richmond
• Brenna Tarrant has requested a move from Melbourne to a NSW club, with Sydney the frontrunner
• Janet Baird is set to move from Gold Coast to Hawthorn
• Lisa Steane will move from GWS to Sydney as an expansion player
• The Bulldogs have confirmed star forward Bonnie Toogood wants to play for Essendon
• Madison Prespakis will leave Carlton to sign with Essendon as an expansion player
• Georgia Gee will leave Carlton to sign with Essendon as an expansion player
• Ally Morphett is set to move from GWS to Sydney, contingent on a trade deal
• Bec Privitelli will move from GWS to Sydney as an expansion player
• Izzy Huntington has requested a trade from the Western Bulldogs to GWS
• Maddy Collier will move from West Coast to Sydney as an expansion player

EXPANSION CLUB SIGNINGS

ESSENDON 
U18 academy/zone: Nil 
Open age: Eloise Ashley-Cooper (Essendon VFLW), Bella Ayre (Essendon VFLW), Olivia Barton (Port Melbourne VFLW), Jorja Borg (Carlton VFLW), Joanne Doonan (Ireland), Federica Frew (Essendon VFLW), Danielle Marshall (US), Georgia Nanscawen (Essendon VFLW), Caitlin Sargent (Western Jets), Renee Tierney (Essendon VFLW), Jordan Zanchetta (Essendon VFLW), Jordan Zanchetta (Essendon VFLW) 
AFLW players: Sophie Alexander (Collingwood), Daria Bannister (North Melbourne), Alana Barba (Gold Coast), Steph Cain (Fremantle), Ellyse Gamble (Western Bulldogs), Georgia Gee (Carlton), Catherine Phillips (St Kilda), Maddy Prespakis (Carlton), Bonnie Toogood (Western Bulldogs), Sophie van de Heuvel (Geelong), Jacqui Vogt (St Kilda), Jess Wuetschner (Brisbane) 

HAWTHORN 
U18 academy/zone: Nil 
Open age: Zoe Barbakos (Sandringham Dragons), Catherine Brown (Hawthorn VFLW), Dominique Carbone (Hawthorn VFLW), Tegan Cunningham (Hawthorn VFLW), Bridget Deed (Eastern Ranges/Hawthorn VFLW), Tahlia Fellows (Casey VFLW), Ainslie Kemp (Hawthorn VFLW), Sophie Locke (Port Melbourne), Tamara Luke (Hawthorn VFLW), Isabelle Porter (Williamstown VFLW), Jenna Richardson (Hawthorn VFLW), Eliza Shannon (Hawthorn VFLW), Tamara Smith (Geelong VFLW) 
AFLW players: Kaitlyn Ashmore (North Melbourne), Janet Baird (Gold Coast), Jess Duffin (North Melbourne), Aileen Gilroy (North Melbourne), Tilly Lucas-Rodd (St Kilda), Akec Makur Chuot (Richmond), Kate McCarthy (St Kilda), Sarah Perkins (Gold Coast), Lou Stephenson (GWS) 

PORT ADELAIDE 
U18 academy/zone: Nil 
Open age: Alex Ballard (Sturt), Laquoiya Cockatoo-Motlap, Litonya Cockatoo-Motlap (Bond Uni), Jade de Melo (North Adelaide), Tessa Doumanis (Claremont), Abbey Dowrick (Subiaco), Jade Halfpenny (Norwood), Olivia Levicki (basketball), Liz McGrath (North Melbourne VFLW), Julia Teakle (East Fremantle) 
AFLW players: Hannah Dunn (Gold Coast), Cheyenne Hammond (Gold Coast), Gemma Houghton (Fremantle), Ange Foley, Erin Phillips, Justine Mules (all Adelaide), Maggie MacLachlan (Fremantle), Maria Moloney (Brisbane), Indy Tahau (Brisbane), Ebony O'Dea (Collingwood), Brittany Perry (Gold Coast), Kate Surman (Gold Coast), Indy Tahau (Brisbane), Jacqui Yorston (Gold Coast) 

SYDNEY 
U18 academy/zone: Kiara Beesley (QBE Sydney Swans Academy) 
Open age: Jaide Anthony (Dandenong Stingrays), Montana Beruldsen (Hawthorn VFLW)*, Molly Eastman (North Melbourne VFLW), Sarah Ford (Essendon VFLW), Ella Heads (Inner West), Zoe Hurrell (North Shore), Bridie Kennedy (Williamstown VFLW), Alice Mitchell (Gunnedah)*, Ruby Sargent-Wilson (Southern Power), Paige Sheppard (Geelong VFLW), Sarah Skinner (North Melbourne VFLW), Lauren Szigeti (Hawthorn VFLW), Eliza Vale (Western Bulldogs VFLW), Aimee Whelan (Hawthorn VFLW), Tiarne Cavanagh (rugby) 
AFLW players: Maddy Collier (West Coast), Lexi Hamilton (North Melbourne), Ally Morphett (GWS), Aliesha Newman (Collingwood), Bec Privitelli (GWS), Bella Smith (Collingwood), Lisa Steane (GWS), Brenna Tarrant (Melbourne), Brooke Lochland (Western Bulldogs), Sarah Dargan (Richmond)