Essendon Football Club confirms defender Ash Van Loon has been traded to the Sydney Swans.

In a four-club trade involving Sydney, Brisbane and Port Adelaide, the Bombers have secured pick No.35 in the upcoming AFLW Draft as the Swans receive Van Loon and Port Adelaide acquire the Dons’ pick No.47.

An inaugural Bomber, Van Loon was drafted with pick No.73 in the 2022 AFLW National Draft and played 26 games for Essendon, including 11 in 2024.

AFLW List and Recruiting Manager Georgia Harvey acknowledged Van Loon’s contribution during her time at the Bombers.

“It’s disappointing to see Ash depart, given her role as an inaugural Bomber and the impact she’s had over the past two seasons. However, receiving pick No.35 provides us with an opportunity to further strengthen our list,” Harvey said.

“We thank Ash for her commitment and dedication to Essendon and wish her all the best as she embarks on the next chapter of her AFLW career with the Swans.”