Sixty hopefuls realised their dream of becoming AFLW-listed players during the Telstra 2024 AFLW Draft on Monday night, including two exciting prospects from NSW/ACT. The Sydney Swans bolstered their 2025 lineup by selecting local talents Amelia Martin and Caitlin Reid with picks 56 and 60, respectively.
Amelia Martin - Figtree AFC & UNSW-ES Bulldogs
Amelia Martin’s selection is a testament to the growth of AFL in the South Coast region. Having played over 120 games for Figtree AFL Club, her journey highlights the strides made by the AFL South Coast league in providing exceptional pathways for emerging talent.
Building on this strong foundation, Amelia also joined the QBE Swans Academy, where she delivered a consistent top-age season, representing the Academy in the Coates Talent League Girls competition and earning selection for the Allies at the national championships.
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Caitlin Reid - East Coast Eagles
Caitlin Reid, who previously played in the VFLW for Geelong, returned to the harbour city to refine her craft in the AFL Sydney league. Reid’s rise through AFL Sydney powerhouse club, the East Coast Eagles, highlights the impact of strong club development programs. Known for their dedication to nurturing talent, the Eagles have produced yet another star in Caitlin, who now takes her skills to the AFLW stage.
Reid had an impressive 2024 season, also featuring as a key player in the AFL Sydney Representative footy program, which provided a strong platform for her to showcase her talents.
More via Sydney Swans’ website
The selections of Martin and Reid are also a proud moment for the NSW/ACT football community, reflecting the collective efforts of coaches, academies, and local leagues in fostering elite talent.
“All of us at AFL South Coast are thrilled for Amelia achieving this milestone. We are incredibly proud of all our talented players and it’s fantastic to see someone who played their entire junior career on the South Coast make it to the AFLW. Congratulations Amelia, and thank you to everyone at Figtree AFC, UNSW Eastern Suburbs, and the Sydney Swans Academy that have played a part in Amelia’s development and success”
- Casey White, Community Football & Competition Manager ‑ South Coast & Central West
''Congratulations to Caitlin on being drafted to the Sydney Swans - a true reward for her hard work and dedication across recent seasons. Coming off an outstanding 2024 Season, being named the Best on Ground in the Women’s Premier Division Grand Final and playing a key role in the representative match against Tasmania in July, it is evident Caitlin’s ready to take that next step. It is exciting to see the exposure and opportunity that the reintroduction of the top end talent programs in Sydney will provide those aspirational players.''
- Bronte Mannering, Community Football & Competition Manager ‑ Sydney Seniors
The Sydney Swans continue to invest in local talent, with these picks reaffirming their commitment to growing and strengthening the connection with grassroots football in NSW/ACT.
Congratulations to Amelia Martin and Caitlin Reid, their families, and everyone who has supported them throughout their journey!