Essendon’s AFLW list build continues to make great strides, with Collingwood AFLW player Sophie Alexander committing to signing with 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 VFLW side. 

After impressing at VFLW level, Alexander was elevated to the Pies’ AFLW list and went on to play 31 games across her four years at the club. 

Alexander will be a utility for the Bombers with strong hands and a long, accurate kick. 

Across her 31-game career, she has kicked 16 goals and averaged 5.9 disposals a game. 

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. Since swapping over from basketball, she has worked hard to develop her game, which reflects her strong work ethic and determination to improve,” Mahoney said. 

“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.

“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.”

Alexander's commitment to Essendon's inaugural AFLW side follows those of VFLW Bombers co-captain Georgia Nanscawen, Carlton duo Maddy Prespakis and Georgia Gee, Western Bulldogs forward Bonnie Toogood, Fremantle midfielder Stephanie Cain and Western Jets forward Caitlin Sargent.