Collingwood has today listed cross-code athlete Imogen Purcell as an AFLW category B rookie, whilst the club’s longstanding captain Steph Chiocci heads up a further list of six players to have signed fresh deals with the club.

Chiocci was joined in recommitting by 2018 draftees Mikala Cann, Lauren Butler and Erica Fowler, as well as 2019 draftees Ebony O’Dea and Alana Porter.

In 2019 Purcell was a member of the Australian rowing team and won a bronze medal in the under 23’s World Rowing Championships.

The 21-year-old returns to Melbourne following two years abroad at the University of California Los Angeles, where she won MVP and upcoming freshman rower awards.

The talented junior athlete has also competed at a national level as a track and field athlete and at state level as a basketballer and netballer.

In 2020 Chiocci lead the side for a fourth season. She has featured in all but two of Collingwood’s 28 AFLW matches thus far.

Cann, Butler and Fowler played every match of the 2020 season, their second.  

With today’s signings Collingwood has secured 14 members of its 2021 squad.

Collingwood’s GM of Women’s Sport, Jane Woodlands-Thompson, is pleased with the swift commitment from multiple signings.

“Imogen’s athleticism and ability to thrive across multiple codes is what made her a standout candidate for our program,” Woodlands-Thompson said.

“Collingwood holds a great reputation with its cross-code athletes. We look forward to learning what Imogen can bring to the group in 2021.

“In addition, to secure six of our last years’ list in the third day of the AFLW trade period is an extremely positive sign.”