Geelong Cats’ Maddy McMahon and Samantha Gooden have been moved from the Club’s primary AFLW playing list to its inactive list for the 2022 NAB AFLW Season 7 competition.
McMahon informed the Cats of her desire to take a break from football, while Gooden who has not played at AFLW level yet, came to the mutual decision with the Club as her rehabilitation from a knee injury hasn’t progressed as anticipated.
With the two players moved to the inactive list, Geelong has added young ruck Kalani Scoullar to its primary list, with the 18-year-old set to play in Saturday’s practice match against Gold Coast.
Picked in the initial All Australian squad of 40 and coming third in Geelong’s Best and Fairest, McMahon’s AFLW Season 6 saw the 33-year-old go from strength to strength.
McMahon’s ability to intercept and read the play has made her a clear stand out in defence, averaging a total of 7.4 intercept possessions a game.
Former Suncorp Super Netballer Samantha Gooden joined the Cats for Season 7 after signing as an other sport rookie.
After playing at an elite level for Collingwood Magpies, Melbourne Vixens and Adelaide Thunderbirds, Gooden made the switch to football in 2022, playing with Glenelg in the SANFL Women’s Development league.
Geelong Head of AFLW and Football Pathways Brett Johnson said although it was disappointing to lose such talented players, the Club was supportive of their decision to take some time away from the game.
“It’s disappointing we won’t see Maddy in the hoops for Season 7, but we all know Maddy is a true professional and understands that her wellbeing comes first,” Johnson said.
“This decision allows Maddy to prioritise her life away from football, and our priority will be to provide regular support to Maddy and stay in close contact with her during her time away from the Club.
“Sammy’s rehabilitation from a previous knee injury hasn’t progressed as planned, which is unfortunate for both Sammy and the Club.
“We were excited to see Sammy line up in the upcoming AFLW season, however we have no doubt she will provide great support and encouragement for our players this season.
“Maddy and Sammy remain fully supported by the Club and heavily involved with our footy program, and their leadership off-field will be invaluable for our young and developing group."
Scoullar, a developing ruck who stands at 190cm, played for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels and Vic Country this year, and also lined up for Geelong’s VFL Women’s team on four occasions.
Strong at ruck stoppages and willing to apply defensive pressure, Kalani has been a train-on partner with Geelong over the pre-season.
“We’re excited to see Kalani get her opportunity at the top level and run out with the team on Saturday,” Johnson said.
“We got to know Kalani through our VFLW program this year and, while she is still developing as a footballer, she has shown that she’s ready and willing to test herself at the elite level.
“We look forward to seeing her develop her craft as she works alongside Olivia Fuller in the ruck.”
Scoullar’s inclusion means the Cats will take a squad of 27 players into Saturday’s pre-season match against Gold Coast at Austworld Centre Oval, with first bounce is at 12.30pm AEST.
