AFLW Cats lose Purcell, gain Scheer and Emonson

GEELONG’S AFLW side completed a complicated and unexpected trade on the second-last day of the AFL Women’s sign and trade period, which has seen 2020 best and fairest winner Olivia Purcell end up at Melbourne.

The Cats secured Chloe Scheer and Chantel Emonson along with draft selection 15 in last week’s three-way trade, which also involved Adelaide.

A premiership player with the Adelaide Crows, 21-year-old Scheer has played 17 AFLW games across three seasons for Adelaide after being selected at pick 37 in the 2018 AFLW draft.

An explosive forward, known for her strong overhead marking ability, Scheer averaged 11.3 disposals a game in 2021.

Emonson arrives at the Cats after three season with the Demons.

Selected in the rookie draft in late 2018, Emonson switched to football after a cricket career where she played at state level as a junior.

A skillful outside runner, Emonson has played a role on the wing and half-back over her 22 games. The 28-year-old’s leadership and experience will be a welcome addition.

Purcell played 19 games for Geelong over three seasons at GMHBA Stadium.

Originally selected at pick 14 in the 2018 AFLW draft, Purcell enjoyed a strong debut season in 2019 and excelled in 2020, claiming the club best and fairest award in a breakout season in the midfield.

The 20-year-old had surgery on her knee after injuring her ACL in round 5 this year, and her rehabilitation means she will miss the start of next season.

Geelong’s head of AFLW Brett Johnson said the club was pleased to welcome two talents in Scheer and Emonson, and thanked Purcell for her contribution.

“We are really pleased to have completed this trade which sees us welcome Chloe and Chantel to the club. They are both talented footballers with great experience at AFLW level and we look forward to seeing them at GMHBA Stadium,” he said.

“Thank you to Olivia for her contribution to the football club and community.

“Olivia’s enthusiasm and competitiveness was unwavering and we wish her all the best in her future AFLW career.”

Richelle “Rocky” Cranston, Bec Goring, and Kate Darby were delisted by the Cats last week.

Geelong presently has picks 2, 7, 9, 15 and 52 in the AFLW draft, which will confirm its order on Friday, June 25.