Emerging Irish talent Anna-Rose Kennedy won’t return to Geelong for the 2025 AFLW season.
The Cats have confirmed Kennedy’s decision to remain in Ireland next year after two campaigns in the Hoops, and they have also announced the axing of three players.
After debuting in the 2023 preliminary final, the Tipperary product played in every game this year, highlighted by an 18-disposal performance in the upset Week 8 win over the Brisbane Lions.
“While it is unfortunate for us and our football program to farewell Anna-Rose, we acknowledge the massive sacrifice that all Irish players make to play in Australia,” assistant football boss Brett Johnson said.
“On behalf of the Club, we would like to wish her all the best in the future and the next stage of her life and career.”
Brooke Plummer, Abbey McDonald and Lily Pearce have been told their services are no longer required at GMHBA Stadium.
Plummer joined the Cats with pick 42 in the 2022 AFLW Draft and debuted in Season 7.
The 20-year-old managed four appearances that season but only four since for a career total of eight.
McDonald was pick 55 in the same draft as Plummer but had to wait until 2023 to debut.
She played four games last year and four matches in the recently completed 2024 season.
Pearce spent 2023 on Richmond’s list and was signed by as a replacement for Liv Fuller.
However, the 21-year-old suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament at training before Week 3 of the season.
“This time of year is never easy and to farewell great teammates is always a difficult decision,” Johnson said.
“All players in their time here at the Geelong can be proud of the way they have conducted themselves, and all have been incredible contributors to our program.
“We thank Abbey, Brooke and Lilly for their contribution, and we wish them all the best in their next chapter.”
Meanwhile, K rock Football understands joint AFLW leading goalkicker Aishling Moloney has been offered a three-year contract extension by Geelong.
X: @krockfootball
