The West Coast Eagles will kick-off their first game of AFLW in season seven with eight new faces ready to take on Port Adelaide in what will be the Power’s inaugural game in the competition.
Coveted first round pick Ella Roberts and former Crows premiership player Jessica Sedunary are among the West Coast debutants in a new-look line-up.
In addition to this young and exciting team, former 2021 draftees Charlotte Thomas, Courtney Rowley and Sarah Lakay all have earned selection as the side looks to build for the future.
Head coach Michael Prior will look for consistency through the midfield as key leaders Dana Hooker, Aisling McCarthy join skipper Emma Swanson in an experienced group to make up the engine room.
In attack, Hayley Bullas and Kellie Gibson should support newcomer Kate Bartlett, who had an impressive pre-season.
That trio, combined with Roberts and last season’s leading goalkicker Aimee Schimdt, will look to create ample opportunities to score.
Sophie McDonald will continue her development as a key defender with debutant Sasha Goranova and Beth Schilling backing her up.
Prior will be looking for a high-tempo style of game following the inclusion of West Coast first-gamers Mikayla Western and Krstel Petrevski, with the whole team eager to showcase their fitness that has been built over the pre-season.
Port Adelaide will be determined for their first game ever in AFLW taking on an Eagles side with a lot to prove as a new season of elite women’s football commences.
