The Bombers are excited to announce that Western Jets forward Caitlin Sargent has committed to their inaugural AFLW side as an open-age player.
Standing at 174cm, Sargent is a developing prospect who can read the ball well, is strong in the air and has great goal sense.
Sargent’s strength in attack was on display during this year’s NAB AFLW Under-18 Championships, where she kicked three majors in Vic Metro’s 53-point victory over Vic Country.
Sargent’s 2022 NAB League campaign caught the Bombers’ attention, with the 18-year-old having a breakout year and showing her potential for development.
The key forward kicked 21 goals from 10 games, including two majors in the Western Jets’ NAB League Grand Final victory over the Dandenong Stingrays.
AFLW recruiting manager Harmit Singh said Sargent’s growth over the past 12 months and strong work ethic appealed to the Bombers.
“After missing out on last year’s draft, Caitlin has shown huge growth and development, particularly with her aerial craft, so this is a fantastic reward for her,” Singh said.
“Caitlin was a really important member of the Western Jets under-18 premiership team and as a reflection of her strong work ethic, was selected in Vic Metro’s under-18 team.
“Caitlin performed well for Vic Metro, kicking three goals in their opening match against Vic Country.”
AFLW player contract manager Georgia Harvey said Sargent had a lot of potential at such a young age.
“Last year was Caitlin’s draft year and she was quite young compared to her peers, only qualifying for the 2021 draft by a couple of days, so to see her go to work this year and improve as much as she has is very impressive,” Harvey said.
“At only 18 years of age, we look forward to seeing her continue to develop in the lead-up to our inaugural AFLW season.”
Sargent's commitment to Essendon's inaugural AFLW side follows those of VFLW Bombers co-captain Georgia Nanscawen, Carlton duo Maddy Prespakis and Georgia Gee, and Western Bulldogs forward Bonnie Toogood.
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