The AFL have confirmed the 2017 Virgin Australia AFL Women’s All-Australian Squad, with four Fremantle players included in the initial squad of 40.
Ebony Antonio, Dana Hooker and Kirby Bentley join Fremantle captain Kara Donnellan as those vying for inclusion in the final team of 22.
The team will be announced at the W Awards on Tuesday, 28 March, with Freo youngster Ashley Sharp also in contention for the NAB AFL Women’s Rising Star award.
Donnellan said she was honoured to be in the running for an All-Australian berth.
“It’s fantastic to be selected in the squad along with three of my teammates,” Donnellan said.
“We’ve had a pretty tough year but I think at the end of the day, to get four named in the squad is a testament to the work that’s been put in this season.
“I know I’m a bit biased, but I’d probably put a few more of us in, but the AFL have done a good job in selecting.”
The significance of being an All-Australian in the inaugural season wasn’t lost on Donnellan.
“There’s been a lot of firsts this year but at the end of the day it’s a team game and you play footy with your teammates ,” Donnellan said.
“But to get recognised for your efforts, and showing that you have contributed to the game in 2017, will be a massive honour - for myself and any of the Freo girls.”
The W Awards will wrap up the 2017 NAB AFL Women’s season after Saturday’s Grand Final between Brisbane and Adelaide at Metricon Stadium.
“Tuesday night will be a nice night for all of us to celebrate the season,” Donnellan said.
“It will be good to meet up with all of the other girls from the other teams, and have a few laughs and enjoy the night.
“It’s good to see everyone getting recognised at the highest level.”
