Fremantle have confirmed four changes to their AFLW playing list for the 2025 NAB AFLW season on Thursday.
Makaela Tuhakaraina, Tara Stribley, Serena Gibbs and Tahleah Mulder were advised they would not be offered contracts for next year.
Tuhakaraina was selected at pick 38 in the 2021 AFLW Draft and debuted in round 1 of season six in 2022.
The small forward played 17 games for Fremantle across four seasons, kicking five goals in her career and played one game in 2024.
Head of AFLW Claire Heffernan thanked Tuhakaraina for her commitment and dedication during her time at Fremantle.
“Makaela could always change a game with her pace and electric sidestep. She is a hard worker and a supportive and caring teammate,” Heffernan said.
Stribley played six games across three seasons on Fremantle’s list, however had an unlucky run with various injuries, ruling her out for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Selected at pick 59 in the 2022 AFLW Draft, the forward debuted in round 3 of Season 7.
“Tara is a resilient young woman who always put the team first and dedicated herself to her rehab through challenging injuries,” Heffernan said.
“Stribs was also an amazing Club person and teammate.”
Gibbs was selected by Carlton at pick 44 in the 2019 AFLW Draft and spent four seasons on its list before being traded to Fremantle ahead of the 2023 season.
The key forward missed the majority of the 2024 season with MCL and PCL injuries, however played eight games across six AFLW seasons.
“Serena made the brave decision to move interstate to pursue her AFLW career with the Club,” Heffernan said.
“A natural footballer, she also suffered a significant injury which curtailed her ability to play consistent football.”
Mulder played four games in purple after being selected at pick three in the 2023 AFLW Supplementary Draft and debuted in round 7 of the 2023 season.
Mulder averaged 10 disposals and 4.5 tackles across the four games.
“TJ (Tahleah) is another player whose presence made the team and her team mates better,” Heffernan said.
“A latecomer to football, she always worked extremely hard and was committed to improving her craft as a footballer.
“Each one of these players had a significant impact on the program both on and off the field and they will all be sorely missed.
“We wish Tux, TJ, Serena and Stribs all the best in the future, both in football and life.”
