Jess Rentsch continued her impressive rise in 2025, cementing herself as one of West Coast’s brightest young talents in her second AFLW season.

Her consistency and impact were recognised with a NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination in round nine and a nomination in the 22under22 squad, highlighting her growing influence and exciting future in the blue and gold.

Q: Second year at West Coast, how did you see your season personally overall?

I think my season was an improvement from last year and I’m glad that injury didn’t prevent me from playing. The only issue now is not getting suspended (sarcasm), but I was pleased with how everything went. 

Q: You’ve become famous for your ferocious and incredibly tough tackles, did you notice an increase in attention on you this season?

I have always loved tackling, ask my brothers and the many bruises that I gave and received from them over the years. I did see a rise in attention, and I have been told by multiple people that I’m their dad’s or boyfriend’s favourite. Hopefully I can make all the dad’s and boyfriends of the footy world happy seeing the tough hits because it fuels me to keep going.

Q: Rising Star nomination in round nine, how did it feel to get a bit of recognition and reward for effort?

I’ve never been one for personal achievements, but it is nice to be recognised. Especially considering my first year didn’t pan out how I would have liked. Although, I would much rather win a final and make the grand final.

Q: Second season being coached under Daisy Pearce, what does Daisy do to really instil belief in this team?

Daisy simply believes in us and trusts in our ability to deliver. We call it building evidence, we build evidence through actions, which leads to confidence. Daisy has an innate ability to read the game and set clear, achievable expectations that brings out the best in everyone.

Q: This group of girls is just so fun, positive and likable, how have you found the dynamic amongst the playing group this year?

The dynamic is that we are all sisters. Sure, at times we butt heads and disagree but it is honestly like working with your best mates. It’s only been two weeks since the off-season started and I’m already missing them.

Q: Living with Lucia Painter, you two have formed a sister-like bond, how’s that going?

I love living with Lu, we are like soulmates. She’s a great girl and we get along like two peas in a pod. We are equally driven and push each other to our limits. I can almost guarantee that if we get into contact conditioning with each other, everyone better watch out because I have some pent-up anger about the dishes to let loose! I am joking, but we would try and kill each other and then laugh afterwards, it’s like two bulls going at each other.

Q: From country VIC to the sunny beaches of WA, have you really settled into the Perth lifestyle now?

I’ve settled in well now. I still miss home, but with most of my siblings having moved out, it’s not quite the same as it was when I was younger. I bet Dad misses the free labour on the farm. I definitely don’t miss the stubborn sheep. WA is my home away from home now.

Q: What have you got planned for the off-season?

My off-season focus will be on maintaining consistency while building strength and refining technique in key areas of my game. Lu (Painter) and I will be driving back to Victoria together. I’ll spend a month back with family, which includes our river trip for some water skiing, which is always lots of fun. I’ve been reminded to keep it safe so no backflips or wild stunts, I need to stay healthy and ready for pre-season!