Essendon VFLW has revealed a strong squad for Saturday’s season opener against Casey at Windy Hill.                      

The side features 14 players who represented the Bombers in last year’s inaugural side.      

Reigning best-and-fairest winner Hayley Bullas has also been named in the squad, alongside fellow vice-captain Simone Nalder and leadership group members Kirby Hicks and Kendra Heil.

Several new players will make their debut in the red and black, including Erin Gogerly, Sian Wilson and Lori Stepnell.          

Courtney Ugle will lead from the midfield in her first game as new captain.

The line-up also boasts two former AFLW players in Shae Audley (Carlton) and Maighan Fogas (Geelong).

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Tiwi Islander rookie Arthurina Moreen (NT Thunder) has also been named, while fellow Tiwi young gun Jessica Stassi (NT Thunder) will be the 23rd player.      

The Bombers will face Casey from 11:30am on Saturday in a double-header at Windy Hill, with limited tickets available to the VFL & VFLW President’s Luncheon at 11am.

Saturday’s match is also a part of Beyond Blue round, aimed at making mental health part of everyday conversations, with the Bombers to wear Beyond Blue strapping tape during the game.

24/7 help is available by calling 1300 224 636 or visiting beyondblue.org.au/getsupport

Essendon VFLW line-up:  

Backs:

7. Kirby Hicks

11. Molly Warburton

29. Chloe Laan

Half-backs:

21. Katherine McFadyen

27. Alex Morcom

18. Kendra Heil

Centreline:

1. Courtney Ugle (C)

39. Maighan Fogas

28. Ruby Svarc

Half-forwards:

25. Lori Stepnell

23. Maddy Collier

24. Sian Wilson

Forwards:

3. Monique DeMatteo

38. Erin Gogerly

40. Arthurina Moreen

Followers:

30. Simone Nalder (VC)

22. Natalie MacDonald

8. Hayley Bullas (VC)

Interchange:

2. Isabel Currenti

13. Shae Audley

43. Georgia Nanscawen

 

4. Alex Saundry

Emergencies:

14. Tessa Zagantinos

45. Eloise Ashley-Cooper

15. Lauren Caruso

 

33. Elizabeth Hosking

23rd player:

31. Jessica Stassi

  

Victoria Raptis is in the final year of her Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree at RMIT University. As part of their strategic partnership, Essendon Football Club and RMIT University are committed to providing opportunities for students, staff, players and the wider community.