Daria Bannister and Bess Keaney have extended their AFLW contracts for another season, with each set to remain in red and black until the end of 2026.
The pair were key pieces in the Bombers’ push to the finals last season, with Bannister making a successful return from an ACL injury to feature in every game and finish as the Club’s leading goalkicker, whilst Keaney made immediate impact in the leadership group in her first season as a Don.
Bannister’s popularity around the playing group has been evident since joining as an AFLW foundation player ahead of 2022 with her electric style of play as a deep forward.
Overcoming injury woes and hitting career-best form in 2024, Bannister booted a career-high four goals in the stirring win over the Dees at Windy Hill in round five.
Reaching the 50-game milestone in Darwin last year for the inaugural Dreamtime match, Bannister’s eager for more celebrations in the sash and the opportunity to provide her leadership to the forward.
“We’ve built such great culture here over the last few seasons and it was an easy choice to sign for another year,” Bannister said.
“With the direction we’re heading and the strides we’ve made as a group, it’s something I want to be a part of for as long as I can. Last year was really positive from a team and individual perspective and I’m keen to keep it going.”
Alongside Bannister, lifelong Bombers supporter Keaney solidifies the Club’s defence and wing depth with her re-signing.
A former Vice-Captain of the SUNS, Keaney’s professionalism and leadership within the four walls have made her an instant favourite in her first year at the Dons, a staple in all 12 games last season including her 50th career game in the vital round 10 victory over the Blues at IKON Park.
The 33-year-old enjoyed one of her best statistical seasons at her new Club, especially prominent late in the season where her coolness and composure were on display – back-to-back 20-disposal games in the final two matches of the season reflective of her big game presence.
Equipped with more finals experience and embracing her role as a leader within the squad, Keaney’s excited to be a Bomber until the end of 2026.
“I’ve felt welcome here from day one and I’m excited for what the next couple of years will look like as a Don,” Keaney said.
“There’s the obvious attachment as a lifelong fan of the Club but since being around the place, it’s the vibe of the entire staff and playing group, as well as our drive to keep going one better, which has given me the most joy.”
AFLW List and Recruiting Manager Georgia Harvey is thrilled to have the experienced pair locked away for another two seasons.
“Bess and Daria have been very important players for us across their first and third seasons respectively, and are highly regarded amongst our playing group, so it’s fantastic to have them re-sign for a further season, on top of 2025," Harvey said.
“Daria’s shown great resilience through her injury setbacks to return and have an impact on field, while Bess’ professionalism and leadership have been crucial to our playing group both on and off the field.
“They’re both integral players for us and we look forward to seeing them both in action for another two seasons.”
The 2025 AFLW Season will kick off in August this year, with the Bombers slated for an official return to pre-season in May.