Tara Murray
Essendon’s inaugural AFLW side has received another boost with Western Bulldogs forward Bonnie Toogood indicating she wants to join the Bombers for their first season.
The Bombers announced on Wednesday that Toogood had committed to the club for its inaugural AFLW season.
The club will now work with Toogood, her management and the AFL to facilitate this request once the AFLW Sign and Trade Period opens, with timing yet to be confirmed by the AFL.
Toogood has played 37 games across her five seasons at the Western Bulldogs as a key forward, with a career-goal tally of 29.
This year was a career-best season for the exciting forward, with the 24-year-old kicking 10 goals, averaging 3.5 marks and 3.7 score involvements.
Essendon general manager of football Josh Mahoney said Toogood would be a fantastic addition to the team, both on and off the field.
“We are thrilled to welcome Bonnie to the Bombers once the AFLW Sign and Trade Period opens,” Mahoney said.
“Bonnie is a great example of someone who drives standards and embodies the culture we are building at the club, especially through her leadership on the field and her contribution to the local community.”
AFLW player contract manager Georgia Harvey said Toogood would bring strength and experience to the Bombers’ forward line.
“Bonnie is a versatile forward who will bring a wealth of experience and leadership to our team,” Harvey said.
“She is a player who has a lot of potential and we look forward to continuing her development at our football club. Bonnie will be an integral part of our team.
“We look forward to welcoming Bonnie to the club and to see her in the red and black.”
The announcement of Toogood joining the Bombers follows the news early this week that Carlton pair Madison Prespakis and Georgia Gee would be joining the club.
