Tara Murray
Collingwood utility Sophie Alexander is the latest player to commit to Essendon for its inaugural AFLW season.
Alexander, who played 31 games for Collingwood, has indicated that she wants to join the Bombers.
The club will now work with Alexander, her management and the AFL to facilitate this request once the AFLW sign and trade period opens, with the timing yet to be confirmed by the AFL.
Alexander transitioned from basketball to football in 2017, and after a successful season with the Eastern Devils, joined Collingwood’s inaugural Victorian Football League Women’s side.
After impressing at VFLW level, Alexander was elevated to the Pies’ AFLW list and spent four years at the club.
Essendon general manager of football Josh Mahoney said Alexander’s experience and football journey would make her a great addition to the Bombers.
“Sophie is another great addition to our AFLW side,” he said. “Since swapping over from basketball, she has worked hard to develop her game, which reflects her strong work ethic and determination to improve.
“She will be a great asset and will contribute to our club standards on and off the field.”
Essendon AFLW player contract manager Georgia Harvey said Alexander would become an important part of the Bombers’ line-up,” she said.
“Coming from a basketball background, Sophie’s journey to the AFLW has been unique and she brings a different perspective to the game,” Harvey said.
“At 178cm, Sophie provides flexibility at either end and will bring a lot of experience to our inaugural AFLW team.
“Sophie is a lifelong Bombers supporter and we look forward to seeing her in the red and black.”
Collingwood’s head of women’s football Jess Burger thanked Alexander for her contribution to the club.
“All AFLW clubs have an expectation of player movement this season given the current environment with expansion, so for that reason we understand Soph’s decision to seek a new opportunity elsewhere”, Burger said.
“We thank her for her time at Collingwood and wish her all the best for what’s next.”
