Geelong Cats have signed Caitlin Thorne as a replacement player for the 2024 AFLW season.

Caitlin’s addition is due to Erin Hoare being moved to the inactive list, with the ruck announcing her retirement from AFLW earlier this week.

Thorne, who has been part of the strong Box Hill Hawks VFLW side for the past two seasons, can play across half-back and through the midfield, with her run and carry and ability to drive the ball long up the ground assets to her game.

The 20-year-old played her junior football in Queensland and was part of the Gold Coast Suns Academy, earning selection in the 2022 Under 18 Queensland State Team.

While still an underage player, Thorne played senior football with Bond University in the QAFLW, and was named in the 2022 Team of the Year in the backline.

Thorne moved to Victoria last year and began her VFLW career, playing 13 games with the Hawks in her debut season, averaging 12.2 disposals, 4 tackles and 2.7 marks a game.

This season, Thorne has impressed with her work on the wing and taken her game to another level, averaging 15.7 disposals, 7.1 tackles and 3.2 marks a game.

Geelong Cats Assistant General Manager of Football Brett Johnson said the Cats were thrilled to welcome Thorne to the AFLW squad.

"Caitlin has demonstrated great potential in both the QAFLW and VFLW, showcasing versatility across midfield and defensive positions," Johnson said.

"Despite her youth, Caitlin brings valuable senior football experience to our team. We eagerly anticipate her transition into the AFLW with Geelong, where she will continue to evolve and refine her game.”