Fremantle has secured the signatures of 18 players from their inaugural season in the AFL Women’s competition, including marquee players Kara Donnellan and Kiara Bowers. 

Donnellan captained Fremantle in 2017 and was Freo’s sole representative in the All Australian squad, while Bowers is yet to play a game after injuring her knee with the Coastal Titans during the 2016 WAWFL finals.

Dana Hooker, Fremantle’s inaugural fairest and best winner, has also signed on alongside Lara Filocamo, who finished fourth in the AFLW fairest and best.

The remaining signees include Ashley Sharp, Brianna Green, Tayla Bresland, Tiah Haynes, Amy Lavell, Stacey Barr, Ebony Antonio, Belinda Smith, Hayley Miller, Gabby O’Sullivan, Kirby Bentley, Melissa Caulfield, Gemma Houghton and Cassie Davidson.

The AFLW has increased the list size for 2018 from 25 to 27, with a further three rookie list spots available.

This means Fremantle will be looking to secure at least another nine players and three rookies during the 2018 NAB AFLW Draft in October, where Fremantle has picks two, 10, 18 and 26 in the opening four rounds.

Donnellan said that it was important for Fremantle to retain such key players for the 2018 season.

“I’m really excited to get going again and to continue what we started last season,” Donnellan said.

“We’ve kept together a very strong group of girls.

“It’s obviously really important to keep a core group together. We’ve built some really good relationships over the past eight months.”

Donnellan added that she was most excited to play alongside Bowers, who was named as a co-vice captain for the 2017 season despite being ruled out through injury.

“I can’t wait to finally pull the boots on with ‘Turbo’ (Bowers), it’s been a long time coming,” Donnellan said.

“It’s all very exciting but playing alongside her is what I’m looking forward to the most to be honest.”

Bowers said the support she received through a difficult time made it easy to re-sign with Fremantle. 

“Freo went through everything with me last season,” Bowers said.

“To be able to sign again for another year is incredible. I can’t wait to pull on the guernsey, I’ve been waiting a long time to do it and I’m just really excited.”

“My teammates have been there for me and getting me through a long pre-season so I’m fit for next year.

“They’ve been incredible and I can’t wait to run out with them next season.”