Fremantle has locked in a Rookie Signing ahead of the 2025 season in Western Australian hockey gun, Matilda Banfield.

19-year-old Banfield is recognised as one of the state’s up and comers in hockey, known for her athletic talent and elite repeat endurance. 
 
Banfield featured in numerous Hockey Australia Women’s Futures Squads, as well as being selected as a train-on in the Perth Thundersticks Women’s team in 2024. 

AFLW List Manager Darryn Fry said the Club was pleased to sign Banfield for the next two seasons, and unpacked how her football potential was discovered.
 
“We’ve identified a number of cross-code athletes throughout the year that we believe could transition into AFLW,” Fry said.

“Tilly really stood out for us – she’s got a strong athletic profile, and she’s a high performing hockey player.

“She is an elite runner, whose physical testing through the hockey pathway has been at a high level, and we feel these assets will transfer to AFLW well. 
 
“Tilly has showcased that she has the football fundamentals required of an AFLW player, and we’re really delighted we’re in a position to be able to bring in a rookie for the next two years to continue to enhance and grow within our environment.” 

Fry highlighted Banfield’s natural ability and touched on her sporting background growing up.
 
“Tilly has grown up with hockey but had a small taste of football in school and really enjoyed the competitiveness of the sport, while also having a family connection to the game.” Fry said. 
 
“She has amazing work ethic with a massive thirst to learn and improve.” 

Position-wise, Fry said Banfield will gain experience in various roles across different lines but would look to utilise her elite running capabilities.

“Tilly will get to work in understanding the structure of multiple roles and continue on her fundamentals development – we are very excited to see Tilly’s progression into AFLW,” Fry said.