Carlton has recruited athletic rebounding defender and former Northern Knight, Ciara Fitzgerald ahead of the upcoming AFLW season.
Replacing another former Knight, Lulu Beatty, who was placed on the inactive list last week, Fitzgerald has experience at AFLW level, making her debut for Richmond back in 2020 against St Kilda.
Fitzgerald’s versatility allows her to play multiple roles down back, supporting in the air as well as being talented at ground level.
A natural reader of the play, she impacts the game through her intercept-marking ability and athleticism.
In 2021, the 22-year-old joined North Melbourne’s Victorian Football League Women’s side, where she was a consistent performer and team player.
In 2023,she was awarded runner-up in North Melbourne’s VFLW best and fairest, playing 13 matches and averaging 14 disposals.
“We are excited to welcome Ciara to our club. She is a hard-working and skilled athlete that we think will be a great addition to our squad in the absence of Lulu,” Carlton head of AFLW Ash Naulty said.
“She had a solid season in the VFLW and has shown great attributes throughout the year.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what Ciara can produce this season as a Blue.”
Carlton will play its first match for 2023 against Gold Coast this Saturday at IKON Park.
