The Geelong Cats wish Sophie Van De Heuvel well on the next chapter of her football journey after the 21-year-old informed the club she wished to sign with an AFLW expansion club.

Van De Heuvel was an inaugural member of the Cats’ AFLW playing group, drafted with pick 2 in the 2018 NAB AFLW Draft, and has played 31 games across four seasons.

Known for her run and carry off half-back and the wing, the former cricketer and Greater Western Victoria NAB League footballer played nine of a possible 10 games in AFLW Season 6.

“Sophie has been an integral member of our playing squad since we entered the AFLW, and we thank her for all she has given the club,” Geelong Cats Head of AFLW and pathways Brett Johnson said.

“In addition to her on-field ability, we know Sophie’s new team will benefit from her warmth and kindness that the Cats have enjoyed over the past four years.”