HAWTHORN has completed a cross-code coup ahead of its second season in the AFLW, with Melbourne Victory star and capped Matildas goalkeeper Casey Dumont accepting an offer to switch to footy.
As revealed by womens.afl earlier this week, Dumont had been weighing up a proposal from the Hawks to make the leap across but has since officially committed to joining Bec Goddard's side.
Dumont had been allowed to concentrate fully on the Melbourne Victory's recent finals campaign before pondering the decision, but has now agreed to play for Hawthorn ahead of the new season starting in September.
"At the Hawks, we pride ourselves on setting gold standards which is why Casey will fit in perfectly with our program," Goddard said.
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"She's experienced the highs and lows of professional sport all while working as a nurse off the pitch, which is a reality that many of our athletes face.
"I think our players will learn a lot from Casey while our fans can be excited about her potential with the Sherrin in hand.
"We're excited to support Casey in her journey as a dual-sport athlete and will be with her every step of the way as she strives for success in both codes."
Dumont, who is the reigning A-League Women's Goalkeeper of the Year, had been considered an outside chance to be selected in the Matildas squad for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup.
Dumont's signing comes just a fortnight after she made headlines in the A-League finals, saving and then scoring a penalty for Melbourne Victory in their semi-final win over fierce rivals Melbourne City.
Dumont, who has played for four A-League clubs – Melbourne Victory, Brisbane Roar, Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers – has been capped three times for the Matildas and had been in outstanding form last season.
She is a three-time A-League champion, twice with the Roar and once with the Victory, while she had re-emerged as a potential Matildas call-up ahead of the Women's World Cup after claiming last season's Goalkeeper of the Year honours.
Hawthorn finished its inaugural AFLW season with a 3-7 record last year, but enjoyed a strong off-season where it secured Brisbane premiership duo Emily Bates and Greta Bodey as statement recruits in the Priority Signing Period.
Dumont has joined the Hawks via their rookie list.
