Geelong’s AFLW selection committee has its work cut out for it this week with close to a full list to choose from heading into the Cats’ Round 1 clash with Richmond.

Experienced recruits Mikayla Bowen (formerly West Coast Eagles), Shelley Scott and Jackie Parry (both Melbourne) are all in the frame to make Cats debut in the season-opener, alongside young winger Ingrid Houtsma, who crossed from the Tigers during the Sign & Trade Period.

Exciting defender Annabel Johnson has been given the all-clear to make her AFLW return after a foot fracture prematurely ended her debut season earlier this year.

Don’t miss the Cats as they launch their Season 7 campaign this Sunday at GMHBA Stadium. Get your tickets today.

Johnson, whose rise in the world of footy has been remarkable after taking up the sport competitively only 18 months ago, made a strong impression with her ability to read the play and athleticism.

The 21-year-old played four games in Season 6, and made it through Geelong’s Season 7 practice match against Gold Coast unscathed.

Georgie Rankin was a late withdrawal from the Cats’ practice match squad, but is expected to be fine to go for Round 1.

An apparent leg injury to skipper Meghan McDonald during the practice match was later confirmed to be a bad cramp, and the two-time All Australian is good to go for Sunday’s clash. Becky Webster is also ready to go after being on the receiving end of some friendly fire in the practice match.

The only Cats not available for selection are Renee Garing, who is making her return to footy after giving birth to her first child in May.

Garing’s return is another step nearer, however, after the 33-year-old joined the main group on the track for some football drills this week.

The Cats will name their team on Saturday for the Round 1 clash.

Geelong launches its AFLW Season 7 campaign against Richmond this Sunday at GMHBA Stadium, with first bounce at 4.10pm AEST. Get your tickets here.

Geelong Cats Injury List Round 1