Fremantle vice-captain Ange Stannett will miss the upcoming 2024 NAB AFLW Season, after scans revealed the 27-year-old has sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in her left knee.
The injury occurred during a training session on Thursday evening at Victor George Kailis Oval in Cockburn.
Fremantle Head of AFLW Claire Heffernan said the Club will do everything they can to support her through her rehabilitation.
“Ange is a loved and admired teammate and will be missed on the field in 2024,” Heffernan said.
“Her leadership and care for her teammates is second to none, so as a group we are shattered this injury has put a pause on her ability to play the game that she loves.
“The Club will provide the best support for Ange post-surgery and beyond as she tackles her rehabilitation with the same determination and purpose that she brings to her on field pursuits.
Key forward Serena Gibbs has also injured her medial collateral ligament (MCL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in her left knee during the same session.
“Serena’s injury is another stroke of bad luck, as she was building towards some impressive form and ready to hit pre-season with intensity and purpose,” Heffernan said.
“As with all of our injured players, we will provide the same care and support as Serena commits to her rehabilitation and works towards healing from this injury.
Both Stannett and Gibbs’ injury timelines are still unclear, and their return to play will be confirmed post-surgery.
