Versatile Fremantle player Maggie MacLachlan has confirmed her commitment to Port Adelaide for the upcoming season.
The 19-year-old made her NAB AFLW debut in round nine of the 2022 season and is making the move to increase her on-field opportunity.
“Joining Port Adelaide is a new, different and exciting opportunity and I was ready for a change,” MacLachlan said.
“I love that there is a strong female leadership team in place at the club. I have spoken to (head coach) Lauren (Arnell) and feel really good about learning from her and playing under her.”
The Perth product joins fellow former Docker Gemma Houghton in the inaugural Port women’s team.
MacLachlan played a defensive forward role on debut but has the ability to play at either end of the ground.
Juggling her time between a shop assistant position at a sports store and a role in the mining sector, MacLachlan’s fun and chatty character will fit right in at Alberton.
“I think Maggie’s strengths, outside of her infectious and bubbly personality, is that she is a really good ball-user and is someone who understands the game well,” Arnell said.
“I think what we have seen in her limited game time at Fremantle is that she is very much able to play her role for the team and has some great confidence in what she can bring. She will fit exceptionally well into our group.”
MacLachlan is a keen competitor who prides herself on her long kick, running capacity and ability to read the game.
When asked if she was nervous about making the move to South Australia, her enthusiasm for the change was obvious.
“Get me to Adelaide!” she laughed.
“I'm so excited to start pre-season, meet everyone and settle in. My goal is to just play more consistent football and really establish myself as an AFLW player.”
