Alex Morcom and Lily-Rose Williamson will don the sash as part of Essendon’s inaugural AFLW squad.
The two have been added to Essendon’s list after Eloise Ashley-Cooper and Georgia Nanscawen were added to the club’s inactive list after suffering season-ending injuries, opening two more spots.
Morcom was part of the Bombers’ 2022 Victorian Football League Women’s premiership side, having been part of the VFLW program since the start.
Morcom has finished in the top three of the Bombers’ VFLW best and fairest for the past two seasons, showing her consistency
Joining Morcom on the Bombers’ AFLW list is Williamson, a versatile midfielder with excellent goal sense.
Hailing from Traralgon, the Gippsland Power product has represented Victoria at under-15 and 17 levels.
The 17-year-old is known for her tough, combative style of play while also being dominant in one-on-one contests.
AFLW contract manager Georgia Harvey said the club is thrilled to have Morcom and Williamson join their AFLW program.
“While it’s disappointing to have two players in Georgia and Eloise ruled out for the season, we are very excited to have Alex and Lily-Rose come on board and sign with our inaugural list,” she said.
“Alex has been a dependable and hard-working defender in our VFLW program since its inauguration. We are very proud of her commitment to the club and this is a fantastic opportunity and one she has thoroughly earned.”
“Lily-Rose is a highly talented junior who can rotate between multiple positions, including the midfield. Her strength, agility and ability to win contests really stood out and we look forward to continuing her development under our AFLW program.”
The Bombers AFLW season gets underway on August 27 against Hawthorn. On Saturday, they were due to host Port Adelaide in a pre-season match.
Tara Murray
