Essendon is proud to announce another three VFLW Bombers have signed with the club’s inaugural AFLW team.
Eloise Ashley-Cooper, Renee Tierney and Isabella Ayre have all committed to the Bombers’ AFLW side as open-age signings.
Reigning VFLW best and fairest Ashley-Cooper has impressed with her versatility across the Bombers’ backline and midfield, averaging 14.9 disposals, 8.6 kicks and 6.3 handballs per game this season.
Hailing from Finley in New South Wales, the 21-year-old’s mature approach and natural leadership have been influential since becoming a Bomber in 2019.
Lining up alongside Ashley-Cooper at AFLW level is Tierney, who joined Essendon at the start of this VFLW season after playing three seasons of NAB League with the Geelong Falcons and representing Vic Country in the AFLW U19 Girls Championships last year.
Quickly impressing with her contested marks and ability to hit the scoreboard, Tierney has been a key target up forward, kicking 16 goals throughout her 12 games in the red and black.
Adding more AFLW experience to the Bombers’ inaugural side is Ayre, who has played five VFLW games this year, averaging 13.8 disposals, 7.8 kicks and 2.6 marks.
Ayre played 12 AFLW games for Carlton and Brisbane between 2017-19 before retiring to explore career opportunities away from football.
After three years away from the game, Ayre is ready to step back up to AFLW level.
Executive general manager of football Josh Mahoney said these signings reflected the strength of the VFLW program and the success it has had in improving players' development.
“In our inaugural VFLW season, the team won one game. Five years on and they’ve finished undefeated and minor premiers,” Mahoney said.
“These three signings in addition to the previous announcements are a fantastic reflection on our VFLW program and how it has enhanced individual players' development while striving for team-orientated success.
“Eloise, Renee and Bella have been key to our VFLW success this year and I look forward to seeing them develop further in the AFLW environment.”
AFLW contract manager Georgia Harvey said the three players had shown great promise at VFLW level while also demonstrating their commitment to continue growing their game.
“Eloise, Renee and Bella have all been determined to develop their games and have consistently performed at VFLW level,” Harvey said.
“They all bring a different set of skills, which will complement our list well as we head towards our inaugural season.”