AFL Tasmania is thrilled to congratulate Devils star Sophie Strong, selected by Essendon at pick 35 in last night's AFLW Draft.
Injuries limited Sophie Strong to just a handful of games in 2024, but that didn’t stop Essendon from grabbing her in the draft’s second round.
With explosive speed, elite endurance and a strong work ethic, she has all the tools to succeed at the next level. While she has played mostly as a midfielder, she could line up as a dangerous forward early in her AFLW career.
Strong started her football journey with the Sandy Bay Lions Junior Football Club, before graduating to the North Hobart Football Club and representing the state in the Tasmania Devils talent Pathway.
State Girls Development Coach and AFLW Premiership player Jess Wuetschner said it’s great to see another Tasmanian join the AFLW.
“We are so excited for Sophie, in what has been a tough year with injury, her attitude and application has been excellent.
“Sophie has all the right attributes to succeed at the highest level and as her coach and a former Essendon player, I'm looking forward to cheering her on when she dons the sash next year.
“We are disappointed there weren't more Tasmanian names called out last night, but the dream doesn’t end here for our girls.
“Tunisha Kikoak serves as the perfect example for our girls that didn't get drafted. Tunisha came back as an over ager for us, had an amazing attitude and performed strongly to land on Fremantle's list as an injury replacement player and she has not looked back.
“Tunisha was recently named the Dockers best first year player which is just rewards for someone who really wanted to make it - so the dream is well and truly still alive for our other girls if they want it.
“We will support all our players that missed out on their next step including exploring some overage opportunities as well as chances to play in our senior state academy.”