Collingwood vice-captain Brittany Bonnici will miss the remainder of the 2022 AFLW season with scans today confirming a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and moderate grade tear of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in her left knee.
The 24-year-old sustained the injury in the opening term of yesterday’s 25-point win over the Western Bulldogs at Victoria Park.
After receiving her first All Australian selection in 2021, the midfielder has gone on to average 19 disposals and five tackles this season.
In 2021, she finished in third place of the club’s best and fairest award.
Since her debut in Round 1, 2017, Bonnici has never missed a match and has played 47 games.
Collingwood’s Head of Women’s Football, Jess Burger says the program is devasted for Bonnici.
“We’re all hurting for Brit”, Burger said.
“She is an incredibly strong leader of our club and this season she’s taken her leadership to another level having been without Bri (Davey) and at times Steph (Chiocci).
“She’s continued to play some outstanding football this season and despite her injury, she should be extremely proud of what she has accomplished on field this season.
“Brit’s professionalism and pride in preparation is second to none and I’m sure she’ll continue these habits into her rehabilitation.”
Bonnici will consult with her surgeon this week.
