Collingwood has today listed cross-code athlete Emily Smith as a rookie for the seventh season of the AFLW.

Smith arrives at the AIA Centre with an extensive cricket resume which features time in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL).

The sport has taken Smith across the country with the 168cm wicketkeeper playing for WBBL teams, the Hobart Hurricanes, the Perth Scorchers, and most recently the Sydney Thunder.

The 27-year-old also spent three seasons with the Tasmanian Tigers in the WNCL where she was part of the 50-over championship side in 2022.

Signing with the Pies is an opportunity for Smith to return home to Melbourne and rediscover her football roots.

Starting her football journey with the St Albans Spurs and the St Kilda Sharks in the Victorian Women’s Football League, Smith went on to be chosen for the Victorian Youth Girls U/18 representative team who were crowned champions on four occasions (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013).

Also in 2013, Smith was named in the U/18 Youth Girls All-Australian side and won selection in the Victorian U/21 representative team the following year.  

Collingwood’s Head of Women’s Football Jess Burger said Smith is a wonderful addition to the AFLW program.

“Emily brings knowledge and experience from the elite sporting environment and that makes her a standout candidate for our program,” Burger said.  

“A small crafty forward with great speed and agility, Emily not only has a great footy IQ but is a well-rounded athlete who will bring elite standards into our program.

“We look forward to welcoming her into the club and watching her next chapter unfold in the black and white.”