Collingwood has signed midfielder Lauren Brazzale for the upcoming AFL Women’s season as part of a draft pick and player swap with Carlton Football Club.
Collingwood has received picks 38 and pick 89 in the upcoming AFLW national draft in exchange for pick 73, with Brazzale crossing to the Magpies and Amelia Velardo heading to Carlton.
An AFLW foundation player, Brazzale was drafted by Carlton with pick 62 at the inaugural AFLW draft in 2016.
The 28-year-old made 41 appearances for the Blues across the past six seasons.
Standing at 163cm, the experienced on-baller is known for her hard-running and penetrating ball use.
Brazzale is set to don the number 24 for Collingwood in the seventh season of the AFLW which will commence in August this year.
Brazzale thanked Carlton for her time at Ikon Park.
“I would like to thank the Carlton Football Club for the last six years and for giving me my first opportunity in the AFLW,” Brazzale said.
“I’m looking forward to this next chapter as a Magpie. It will be extra special given I’ve grown up a Collingwood supporter and I just can’t wait to get started.”
Collingwood’s Head of Women’s Football Jess Burger said Brazzale’s AFLW experience will complement the group.
“As a foundation player in the league, Lauren has a lot to offer our program,” Burger said.
“She has great speed and is a damaging prospect in space. She is a welcomed addition to our midfield group.”
Amelia Velardo departs Collingwood after two seasons.
Drafted to the Pies at pick 25 in the 2020 AFLW draft, the 20-year-old played 11 games in the black and white including the 2022 qualifying final against Brisbane.
Burger wished Velardo well.
“It’s been wonderful to watch Amelia’s development and contribution to our program over these past two seasons, but we know she is excited for this new opportunity to play for the club she grew up supporting.”
“We wish her all the best for her next chapter in the Navy blue.”
