Erica Fowler has announced her retirement from the AFLW, following a 54-game career played across two Clubs.

Initially drafted by Collingwood in the 2018 AFLW Draft, Fowler went on to play 46 games with the Magpies across seven seasons – also winning the 2019 VFLW flag with Collingwood – before joining Sandringham in the VFLW for the 2025 season.

Fowler signed with the Cats this season as a replacement player with Chantel Emonson and Anna-Rose Kennedy both on Geelong’s inactive list. Fowler added to the Cats’ ruck and defensive depth, and celebrated her 50th AFLW game in Round 5, eventually playing eight games for the Cats this year.

The move to Geelong was fitting for Fowler, who made her AFLW debut against the Cats in Round 1, 2019 – the Cats’ first-ever AFLW game.

Able to play at either end of the ground and support Piper Dunlop and Caitie Tipping in the ruck, Fowler provided experience and versatility to the Cats across all three lines in 2025, including kicking the third goal of her career against Hawthorn in Round 7.

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Fowler Wins Thrilling Race And The Finish Is Dazzling

Erica Fowler chases down a long kick inside her forward 50 and somehow manages to get the ‘perfect curl’ on a wild soccer effort.

“I’m grateful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve had across my time at Collingwood and Geelong in the AFLW, and all the incredible people I’ve met along the way, including in my time with Collingwood and Sandringham in the VFLW,” Fowler said.

“Across the past eight seasons, I’ve crossed paths with wonderful athletes, coaches and football staff, and have enjoyed being able both to learn and to share my experience at various stages of my journey.

“I want to thank my family and friends who have supported me along the way. I look forward now to what life holds for me after my AFLW career, and being able to dedicate more of my time to my other career as a paramedic.”

Geelong Cats Head of AFLW Dominique Condo congratulated Fowler on her career.

“As Erica retires from the AFLW, we thank her for her efforts this year, joining us as a replacement player to bring extra experience and add to our key position depth this season,” Condo said.

“Erica has made a significant impact at both her Clubs, following seven seasons at Collingwood, before joining us this year and fitting into our playing group seamlessly.

“We wish Erica all the best for the next chapter, and thank her for her contribution to our AFLW program.”