Foundation Crow Deni Varnhagen is eyeing a return to the AFLW competition after the removal of the SANFLโs Covid-19 vaccination policy.
Varnhagen, who was a part of Adelaide's 2017 and 2019 premiership teams, was placed on the club's inactive list after her refusal to get a Covid-19 vaccination, going against the AFL's mandatory vaccination policy.
The SANFL policy, which was removed last week, required all players, coaches and support staff to be vaccinated for the 2022 season, now allowing room for a return in 2023 for Varnhagen.
โIn line with Adelaide Ovalโs removal of mandatory vaccination for attendees, and the removal of vaccination mandates by a number of key organisations such as SAPOL, we believe it is now safe and appropriate to remove vaccination requirements,โ SANFL CEO Darren Chandler said.
Varnhagen, who played 31 games for the Crows across her career, would need the AFL to lift their strict mandates to facilitate a return to the top flight.
When contacted by the Herald Sun for comment, the 29-year-old admitted that she was excited at the prospect of returning to the top league, with reports suggesting the defender could head across town to Port Adelaide.
"Iโm super keen to return to footy as soon as possible, but Iโm in a unique situation so I have to wait and see how everything unfolds," Varnhagen said.
The AFL's vaccination policy currently remains in place, guided by current government and health advice.
