The Geelong Cats have made changes to its AFLW list, with Gabbi Featherston, Melissa Bragg and Bella Smith informed they will not be offered contracts for 2026.
A Geelong Falcons graduate, Featherston joined Geelong via pick 9 in the 2021 AFLW Draft, going on to play 22 games for the Cats, covering a variety of roles. Able to play forward, back or on the wing, Featherston’s incredible vertical leap also saw her pinch-hit in the ruck, even taking on a supporting role in the ruck full-time for Geelong when needed in the 2024 season.
Having crossed from an elite netball career to take up football, Bragg learnt her new sport through Geelong’s VFLW program, before being selected by Geelong as an Other Sport Rookie on the eve of 2022 Season 7. A tall utility who could play at either end of the ground and offered ruck support, Bragg played 18 games across four seasons with the Cats, including three in 2025.
Smith joined Geelong as part of a three-Club trade involving her former club Brisbane and West Coast Eagles. Having played one game at the Lions, Smith developed as a midfielder at the Cats, going on to play 11 games in the Hoops, with her tenacity around the contest a highlight of her game.
Geelong Cats Head of AFLW Dominique Condo thanked the quartet for their contributions to the Club.
“Bella, Erica, Gabbi and Mel have all been valuable members of our AFLW program, and we thank them for what they have brought to our Club on and off the field,” Condo said.
“This time of year is always difficult as we farewell players who been great teammates and contributed to our program. We wish all four players the best for the next chapters in their respective journeys.
Anna-Rose Kennedy, who spent the 2025 season on Geelong’s inactive list as she stayed in Ireland, has informed the Club that she will not be returning next season.
“We acknowledge the big commitment and sacrifice our Irish players make in travelling half-way across the world to play AFLW, spending so much time away from their family and loved ones, and respect Anna-Rose’s decision to remain in Ireland,” Condo said.
“Anna-Rose made a significant impact in the two seasons she spent with us, and we thank her for her contribution to the Club and wish her well for the future.”
These list changes follow the retirements of Meghan McDonald, Kate Darby and Shelley Scott at the conclusion of the season.
The 2025 AFLW Trade Period to run from 4-10 December, while the 2025 Telstra AFLW Draft will be held on Monday 15 December.
