AFLW premiers North re-sign key trio
Anna Harrington |
All-conquering AFLW back-to-back premiers North Melbourne have locked down Irish star Blaithin Bogue, midfielder Jenna Bruton and young gun Taylah Gatt on multi-year deals.
A day after Tasmania received confirmation of its war chest to try and attract top players from each club ahead of their debut season in 2028, the Kangaroos took steps to lock in some of their premiership talent.
North have made no secret of their determination to constantly add to their list and are circling Sydney star Zippy Fish.
Former Western Bulldogs No.1 draft pick Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner will debut against Carlton on Sunday.
But the chase for more stars seemingly hasn’t squeezed out any stars yet, including Bogue, who had heavy interest elsewhere but has re-signed until the end of 2028.
Bogue, 26, debuted last year and shone, kicking a team-high 25 goals, earning All-Australian honours and claiming a premiership medal.
The forward then kicked three goals for Ireland against Australia in the inaugural representative match.
“Blaithin had an incredible 2025 and her impact in our forward line was a key driver of our premiership success,” North football boss Erin Lorenzini said in a statement.
“To adapt to the game as quickly as she has is a testament to her work rate and dedication.
“It’s exciting to consider how much improvement she still has ahead of her.”
Popular midfielder/forward Bruton, who won a premiership at the Western Bulldogs then joined North, has also signed for two years.
Bruton, 30, tore her Achilles tendon in the 2023 grand final loss to Brisbane but returned to win the flag in 2024 and 2025, kicking three goals in last year’s decider.
The deal would take Bruton, North’s inaugural best and fairest winner, into 11 seasons with the Kangaroos.
“Jenna’s impact on this club speaks for itself and we’re committed to keeping good people in our program, so it was very pleasing to see her sign on,” Lorenzini said.
“She’s the ultimate team player, her teammates walk taller around her and she remains a pivotal part of our program.”
Talented winger Gatt, 21, a two-time premiership player, has signed until 2029, but is currently sidelined with a groin injury.
“Taylah plays and prepares with a level of professionalism well beyond her years,” Lorenzini said.
“Given how central she is to our environment, it’s easy to overlook just how much footy she still has ahead of her.
“While she has had a frustrating start to the season, we know how diligently she is tackling her rehab and we can’t wait to see her back on the park when she’s ready.”
AAP