Hawthorn’s VFLW program has produced 15 AFLW players this season alone after committing to identifying, developing and promoting women’s talent in the past few years.
Of those 15, nine will don the brown and gold including captain Tamara Luke, leadership group member Ainslie Kemp and former NTFL trio Dominique Carbone, Isabelle Porter and Eliza Shannon.
Star winger Emma Humphries headlines the names recruited to other AFLW teams, heading over to the West Coast Eagles for AFLW Season Seven.
Despite losing these 15 players to AFLW programs, the Hawks still finished second on the VFLW ladder with a 12-1-1 record.
VFLW Senior Coach Cherie O’Neill said the success of the program was testament to the players who worked hard for their opportunities on and off the track.
“The progression of our VFLW side has been incredible,” O’Neill said.
“To lose 15 of our best players throughout the season and still qualify for finals is a huge achievement.
“I’m so proud of our program and wish all 15 players the very best in their AFLW journeys.”
AFLW Senior Coach Bec Goddard echoed O’Neill’s sentiments.
“Our VFLW pathway has provided a fantastic opportunity for our players to succeed at the highest level,” Goddard said.
“To see 15 players take the next step in their football careers, and now progress into AFLW programs, is an outstanding result that highlights the dedication and commitment of everyone involved at the ‘Box Hill footy factory’!”
In their first finals appearance since 2018, the Hawks went down to Essendon in their first qualifying final last weekend.
Their next challenge will be booking in a preliminary final spot with a win over the fifth-placed Southern Saints at home on Sunday.
Hawthorn VFLW players recruited to AFLW clubs
Hawthorn- Bridget Deed, Zoe Barbakos, Dominique Carbone, Tegan Cunningham, Eliza Shannon, Tamara Luke, Jenna Richardson, Isabelle Porter, Ainslie Kemp
Gold Coast- Tahlia Meyer
Sydney- Jaide Anthony, Lauren Szigeti, Aimee Whelan, Montana Beruldsen
West Coast- Emma Humphries
