New recruit Bella Smith spoke to the Club following the AFLW Trade Period in December and shared why Fremantle was a perfect fit.

Following a successful trade with the Sydney Swans, Smith explained why Fremantle stood out and when the young gun is set to arrive in Perth.

“(I’m) stoked, actually really excited to get over there and get stuck in,” Smith said.

The 23-year-old said early relationships built with Senior Coach Lisa Webb and AFLW List Manager Darryn Fry reassured her it was the right move.

“I think some initial chats with ‘Webby’ and ‘Frysy’ made me feel so valued,” Smith said.

“Honestly, the chats I had with those two made it (feel) like it would be a really good home.

“I think the success of the Freo girls this year is definitely a playing part in it (as well).

“You can see all around the ground, people play their roles and I’m a huge role player person, so I really like that about Freo.”

A key position player, Smith has experience at both ends of the ground; however, she is keen to make an impact in Fremantle’s forward line.

“I’d love to be forward of the ball,” Smith said.

“Last year was sort of the first year where I had a full season in the forward line.

“I think the backline at Freo is pretty well set up. We’ve got some amazing players back there, and I think our midfield is unreal—obviously with the All-Australian ruck (Mim Strom).”

Smith said she was eager to get stuck into training with the entire squad and complimented some key players.

“I would love to work with Áine Tighe. I think she’s an incredible player I could learn from and work well together with,” Smith said.

“I can’t wait to crack in with Emma O’Driscoll too. She’s a very good defender, so I think she’s going to teach me a thing or two about being a forward. 

“Also, the likes of Aish McCarthy, Gab Newton, and honestly, everyone around the ground.”

Smith said she was pleased to be back on the same side as defender Ash Brazill, with the pair playing together during their time at Collingwood.

“(I’m) stoked to be back with ‘Brazzy’, but scared for when we go ‘forwards v backs’ though because she’s an unreal one-on-one defender. 

“She’s a hard one to play on but one you always want to be on the same team as.”

The key forward will make the move to Perth in time for pre-preseason training this month, road-tripping across the country with her partner and friend.