Black Fern Grace Brooker is switching codes after signing a contract with Essendon, rounding out their AFLW Squad for 2025.
The 25-year-old and her management team reportedly reached out to the AFL in January last year, sharing her details to be circulated among clubs that might be interested.
Brooker, encouraged by her AFL-loving father, was drawn to the rapidly growing women’s game. Despite never having played Australian rules football, she impressed the Bombers with her athleticism, game sense, and vision. Her rugby experience—particularly playing on the wing and at full-back—has provided her with a strong kicking game, a valuable asset in AFLW.
Standing 173cm tall, Brooker has represented New Zealand in four test matches and has played at domestic level for Canterbury and Matatū, based in Christchurch. Most recently, she competed for Yokohama TKM in Japan, showcasing her adaptability and experience abroad.
“My first conversation was with ‘Woody’ (senior coach Natalie Wood), and I was amazed by her care. She was so passionate about helping me understand the AFLW landscape, which I really appreciated,” Brooker said.
“Once I showed interest, Georgia Harvey (list manager) and Woody would check in regularly. It was clear from the start that the focus was on looking after me as a person, before anything else.
“I’ve already met quite a few of the players, and the warmth and energy of the group was incredible. I’m ready to give everything I’ve got—refining my skills, learning the game, improving my fitness—and I can’t wait to get started.”
Brooker will join New Zealand Heritage star Brooke Walker at Essendon, another player with a rugby background that has found success within AFLW. Set to be a trailblazer for other Kiwis looking to make the switch, Brooker hopes her transition could help open doors for New Zealand talent.
With the Super Rugby Aupiki season finished, Brooker has made the move to Australia, joining the Bombers AFLW side as they start preseason.
