Geelong Cats defender Chantel Emonson has shared the exciting news that she and fiancé Thomas Pridgeon are expecting a baby.
The 31-year-old told teammates at training last week that she was pregnant, with the baby expected later this year.
Emonson joined Geelong from Melbourne via a trade ahead of 2022 Season 6 and has played 45 of her 67 AFLW games in the Hoops, and has been a member of the Cats player leadership group since her first season at GMHBA Stadium.
“Thomas and I are excited about welcoming a new addition,” Emonson said.
“Although this season will look differently for me, I look forward to continuing to support the girls in a different capacity. We are grateful for the support we have received already.”
Geelong Cats AFLW Senior Coach Dan Lowther congratulated Chantel and Thomas on their baby news.
“Chantel has been an integral part of our AFLW program for the past four seasons and is very well liked and respected at the Club,” Lowther said.
“We’re all thrilled for her and Tom, and can’t wait to meet the newest addition to their family later this year.”
Emonson will be placed on Geelong’s inactive list for the 2025 NAB AFLW Season, with the Club now to have two spots available on its primary list heading into the 2025 NAB AFLW Season.
