Fremantle have thanked Evie Gooch after the club facilitated a trade for the defender to West Coast on the final day of the 2021 AFLW trade period.

In return, Fremantle have strengthened its draft hand and will receive pick six in the WA pool ahead of the upcoming 2021 NAB AFLW Draft.

Gooch played 23 games in purple over four seasons at Fremantle, after joining the club as a rookie in 2017 – and previously hailing from soccer as a reserve goalkeeper for Perth Glory.

A popular member of the group, Gooch was awarded Best Clubwoman following the 2019 season.

Gooch said she is grateful for her time spent at Fremantle.

"I am grateful for the opportunities made available to me at Fremantle," Gooch said.

"I appreciate all the friendships I have made and will carry them throughout the rest of my career.

"I wish the club, staff and players all the best."

Senior coach Trent Cooper said Gooch had played a key role in Freo’s backline over her four seasons.

“Evie has been a very important member of the side over her four years at the club and was a valuable part of the 2020 undefeated side,” Cooper said.

“Being a cross-coder, Evie came across from soccer and learnt the game very quickly and became one of our defensive pillars.

“Evie moves to West Coast with our blessing as she seeks further opportunities.”

Outside of football, Gooch is also a firefighter with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and was acknowledged for her efforts in helping battle a bushfire emergency earlier this year.

Fremantle’s AFLW manager Darryn Fry said the club wished Gooch well at West Coast. 

“Evie requested a trade to West Coast seeking greater opportunity,” Fry said.

“She was drafted to the club ahead of season two of the AFLW and has been a strong contributor to the club over her four years.

“Evie is a person of great character and culture as attributed by her winning the Best Clubwoman award in 2019.

“We wish Evie all the best in her future endeavours.”