Collingwood cross-code champion Ash Brazill has today put pen to paper in a deal that will see her remain at the club until the end of 2023. 

Brazill’s signature was joined by the program’s long-standing captain Steph Chiocci, Sarah Rowe and Mikala Cann, who have all signed two-year deals. Sophie Alexander and Jordy Allen will remain at the club for another season. 

Following a knee injury in February last year, Brazill returned to the game in round eight and played a key role in the Pies’ finals campaign.

In her fourth AFLW season, the 31-year-old spent some time up forward but predominately played in the Pies’ backline. She kicked one goal and averaged 11 disposals.

Brazill is currently playing in Collingwood’s Super Netball program.

Chiocci, the club’s foundation skipper, took the reins for a fifth consecutive term and alongside Brianna Davey in 2021.

Across five seasons of the AFLW competition, Chiocci has featured in all but two of Collingwood’s 37 matches.

In her third AFLW campaign, Gaelic footballer Rowe played seven games across the season and kicked one goal.

Both entering their third season in 2021, Cann and Alexander featured in every match. Cann kicked two goals and averaged 12 disposals per match, while Alexander kicked six goals, three of which were during the Pies’ final series.

Allen, also in her third campaign, played a key role in the Pies backline with her clean use of the footy, averaging 80 per cent efficiency. 

The 20-year-old’s season was cut short after she fractured her fifth metatarsal in her right foot early in the first term of Collingwood’s round seven match against Brisbane. Prior to this Allen had played every game since her debut in 2019.

Collingwood’s GM of Women’s Sport, Jane Woodlands-Thompson, was thrilled with today’s display of commitment.

“We are thrilled to settle our list for the 2021/22 season, with the signing of some of our most consistent performers,” Woodlands-Thompson said.

“The program’s stability is exemplified through the two-year commitment from our leaders in Steph and Ash. Their guidance will usher through the next wave of talent.

“In 2018, we heavily invested in the draft and the new wave of young talent. To see these women embark on their fourth and fifth seasons as elite athletes is a true testament to our program and our players’ commitment to their development and the club.”

Today’s signings settle Collingwood’s list for the 2021/22 season.

The club will hold second round picks 29, 32 and 33 in July’s 2021 AFLW national draft.