Experienced West Coast Eagles defender Jess Sedunary has announced her retirement from the AFLW after playing 35 games across six seasons in the AFLW.
Sedunary joined the Eagles in 2022 ahead of season seven, having previously played for Adelaide (2017-2019), where she was part of the premiership-winning side in 2017, St Kilda in 2020 and later returning to Adelaide in 2021 before heading west.
The 32-year-old was elevated into the Eagles’ leadership group ahead of the 2023 season and played an important role for her young and developing teammates.
One of Sedunary’s most impressive games came in round two this season, when she recorded 11 disposals, nine tackles and four marks against the Gold Coast Suns.
Sedunary said she’s grateful for her time in the AFLW.
“It’s very emotional, I always knew it would be,” Sedunary said.
“It’s no different to the start of my career, I can’t believe this happened and I’m just super grateful.
“It’s been a whirlwind, eight years since the start and I’m just really grateful, it’s been the most fun time of my life.”
The former state hockey player and Australian cyclist said the most rewarding part of her career was being able to mentor and pass on her experience to her younger teammates.
“The connections I’ve created have been unreal and to come here and help lead the group over the last two years and mentor some of the younger girls has been the most rewarding achievement that I’ve had to date in my athletic career,” Sedunary said.
“The response from the girls when I told them just before was unreal and it just really solidified that I’m really proud of myself and what I’ve done.
“I love the energy that the young girls bring, the laughter, I’ve just never laughed as much as I’ve laughed with this group of girls.”
Sedunary will remain involved in the football world, continuing her work in the Eagles’ Community Department.
“Knowing where the girls are going and how talented some of the young girls are, I put in a lot of work to help guide them so I’m really looking forward to being able to watch on and see what they do and what the team does and be a part of that in any way that I can,” Sedunary said.
“I’m excited, my passion is really in helping and coaching and guiding the people around me so I’m really looking forward to still being part of the footy environment.”
Eagles’ Head of Women’s Football Michelle Cowan said while Sedunary will be missed in the team, she will continue to be a pivotal asset in West Coast’s program.
“Jess has made a huge impact in our AFLW program and on the broader club,” Cowan said.
“Her professionalism, standards and competitiveness are going to be missed.
“Jess will continue to work in our Community Department and play a key role for up-and-coming female footballers and coaches.
“Whilst it’s sad to see Jess hang up the footy boots, it's great to have her continue to be involved in the Eagles program.”
