After a decorated career in purple, Fremantle stalwart Ebony Antonio has announced her retirement from AFLW on Thursday night at the Club’s Fairest and Best Awards, where she was also inducted as a Fremantle Life Member. 

Antonio was placed on Fremantle’s inactive list this year due to pregnancy, and recently welcomed her son, Bowie, alongside wife and fellow Life Member, Kara Antonio. 

One of the few remaining inaugural Fremantle players, Antonio retires as one of the Club’s most influential and versatile contributors.  

Across 70 games, the fifth-most in Freo’s AFLW history, she collected a long list of accolades including AFLW All Australian (2018), Fremantle Fairest and Best (2018), AFLW Goal of the Year (2022), Leading Goal Kicker (2022) and the RAC Derby Medal (2022). 

Antonio’s athleticism and competitive edge made her one of Fremantle’s most adaptable players.  

Beginning her career across half back and on the wing, she later transitioned into the forward line where she became known for kicking thrilling, momentum-shifting goals. 

Antonio was central to Fremantle’s rise and most successful periods, playing a role in multiple finals campaigns and helping build the standards, grit and connection that the current playing group continues to carry. 

Fremantle’s Head of AFLW Claire Heffernan praised Antonio for her contribution to the Club. 

“Epps has shaped this Club in so many ways, not just through the quality of her football, but through the person she is,” Heffernan said. 

“She has been a role model, a leader, and one of the great competitors of our program. 

“Her legacy will live on through the players she has influenced and the culture she helped build. 

“We want to thank Epps for her incredible dedication across her career. She departs as a Fremantle Life Member and a pioneer of our program.  

“We congratulate Epps on an outstanding career and wish her, Kara and Bowie all the very best for the next chapter.”