Port Adelaide’s second AFLW captain Janelle Cuthbertson will step down ahead of the 2025 season.
After rupturing her ACL in Round 2 last year, the respected leader has made the decision to step away from the captaincy to focus on the final stages of her knee rehabilitation ahead of season 10.
The ultimate professional, Cuthbertson made the choice with her signature team-first mentality, and while describing the decision as ‘difficult’, she acknowledges it’s what’s best for herself and the playing group.
“It was an honour to wear the number one guernsey for Port Adelaide,” Cuthbertson said.
“The significance of the opportunity to captain this club was never lost on me, and it will be a memory I cherish forever.
“The nine months following my ACL injury have been difficult, and as we approached the start of this season, I couldn’t shake the feeling that my energy needed to be solely focused on getting my body right to give myself the best chance for selection.
“It wasn’t easy, captaining this football club has been a privilege. However, I know it’s the best choice not only for me, but importantly for the team.
“We have very talented players on our list, and amongst them are several emerging leaders with wonderful qualities.
“I step down with the utmost confidence that the team will be captained by an incredible leader this year, and into the future.
“I’m excited to continue to rehab my knee and get stuck in this pre-season, while continuing to be a mentor to our young group”.
Port Adelaide’s Head of AFLW Shane Grimm thanked Cuthbertson for her leadership and commended her decision.
“Janelle has been an outstanding captain for our football club last year, and an important part of our leadership group as co-vice captain when she was traded to Port Adelaide ahead of the 2023 season, and I’d like to thank her for her dedication and commitment,” Mr Grimm said.
“I know this has been a difficult decision for her, but one we’re supportive of. We’re proud she’s making a choice that she feels is best for both her, and the team.
“Janelle’s career as a professional athlete across both tennis and football is impressive, but it’s the adversity she has overcome with various injuries, and her natural leadership capabilities, that are a true testament to her admirable character.
“It’s been pleasing to see her out on the track as she progresses through her knee rehabilitation, and importantly, Janelle will continue to have a significant impact on our young playing group this year”.
Port Adelaide will announce its 2025 captain and leadership group in the coming weeks.
