The GIANTS have signed Victorian netballer Elle Bennetts as a rookie ahead of today’s NAB AFL Women’s Rookie Draft.
The Health and Physical Education Teacher at Star Of The Sea College in Brighton, was signed as a rookie under the provisions for players from other sports.
“I’m so excited it’s such an amazing opportunity I can’t wait to get started and get out there,” she said.
“My brothers played football and so did my dad. They’re mad Richmond supporters so it’s always been in the family and I’ve always wanted to be a part of it, it seems like such a great environment to be in.”
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Bennetts played for the Victorian Fury in the Australian Netball League from 2012 to 2017 and is a four-time premiership player. She was vice-captain of the Fury this season playing in the mid-court.
Bennetts attended the GIANTS’ AFLW testing day at the WestConnex Centre in September and impressed enough to be added to the club’s list for the 2018 season.
“It was a great day it was a great test and showed me what I needed to work on and what we will be focusing on in 2018, I can’t wait to get out there improve my skills and get to know the girls.”
AFLW Head Coach Alan McConnell said he was excited by Bennett’s talent.
“Elle obviously comes from an elite netball background so we were able to select her as an alternative sport rookie,” he said.
“She trialled here during our first trial day and excelled. She showed great poise and like a lot of dual-sport athletes, seems to have really good decision-making skills.
“She kicks on both sides of her body and is likely to play across half-back. We’re really excited to have her on our list.”
Yesterday the GIANTS announced the signing of local Western Wolves forward Melissa Freckleton as a free agent. The duo join new GIANTS Jodie Hicks, Tanya Hetherington, Courtney Gum, Phoebe Monahan, Philippa Smyth and Cora Staunton who were all drafted on Wednesday.
There are two spots remaining on the club’s list with the NAB AFL Women’s Rookie Draft to be held on Friday from 12pm. The GIANTS' AFLW team starts pre-season training on November 20.
