Carlton forward Brooke Walker has signed with the Parramatta Eels for the upcoming NRLW season, committing to playing both codes across the second half of 2022.
The 27-year-old has played 16 games for the Blues since her debut in 2019, rewarded by the club for her efforts with the offer of a two-year contract extension in 2021.
Walker previously played rugby union prior to making the switch to AFLW, winning a silver medal for Australia at the 2015 Pacific Games.
Carlton have confirmed that Walker will remain an active player, expecting her to miss the opening two to three weeks of the competition as she competes for Parramatta in the NRLW. Walker will train with the Blues as part of their pre-season program until the commencement of the NRLW season, set to begin in August.
Walker thanked Carlton for allowing her the flexibility to become a dual-athlete.
“I’m extremely grateful to Carlton for accepting my wish to seek NRLW opportunities and balance the commitments of two elite sports,” Walker said.
“My primary focus is starting pre-season at IKON Park with my teammates in the coming weeks. I am committed to Carlton and will bring my all as we prepare for the season and again upon my return to the Game Changers during the season.
“I can’t thank the Club enough for accepting my decision. They have certainly been accommodating and I look forward to repaying their faith with absolute commitment when I’m able to return during the season later this year.”
Brett Munro, Carlton's General Manager of Women’s Football, said the club had been supportive of Walker's choice to play across the two competitions.
“Brooke came to us with her interest to explore NRLW opportunities and we have been able to come to an arrangement that lets her participate in both codes,” Munro said.
“Brooke will still be with us for the start of pre-season training, and we look forward to her return to our program once she has completed her NRLW commitments.”