Fremantle's AFLW program have made a left-field addition to their rookie list, signing promising hockey player Matilda Banfield.
The 19-year-old is one of Western Australia's most promising hockey acts, with elite endurance and athletic ability. Banfield has starred in many state-level and national hockey teams, including Hockey Australia Women's Futures Squads and the Perth Thundersticks Women's team.
Banfield has been signed for the next two seasons as the Dockers plan to mold her hockey talent into footballing prowess, with her fitness and athleticism seen as transferrable to the game of Australian rules.
The 19-year-old has had brief experience playing football during school, and has family connection to the sport.
Fremantle's AFLW List Manager Darryn Fry said Banfield was one of many cross-code sportswomen who has untapped potential, with her young age giving her plenty of time to develop.
“We've identified a number of cross-code athletes throughout the year that we believe could transition into AFLW,” Fry said.
“Tilly really stood out for us – she's got a strong athletic profile, and she's a high performing hockey player.
“She is an elite runner, whose physical testing through the hockey pathway has been at a high level, and we feel these assets will transfer to AFLW well.
“Tilly has showcased she has the football fundamentals required of an AFLW player, and we're really delighted we're in a position to be able to bring in a rookie for the next two years to continue to enhance and grow within our environment.”
Given her exceptional running capacity, Banfield has the potential to become a winger or dashing half-back, but will be given time to train across all positions to see what role she suits best.
The Dockers finished fifth in the AFLW's 2024 season, beating Essendon in a tight elimination final before a stinging 37-point loss to powerhouse Adelaide, in which they only scored 1.6 for the match.
The AFLW's 2025 season begins in August.