The AFL has pulled off a major coup, with for Matilda's goalkeeper Brianna Davey quitting soccer, opting to take up a marquee spot at Carlton for the inaugural season of the AFL's national women's competition.
Davey has represented Australia on 17 occasions and made 47 appearances for Melbourne Victory before joining cross town rival Melbourne City last season.
However, after representing the Western Bulldogs in exhibition games against Melbourne in 2015 and 16 and being overlooked for the Australia's 2015 women's world Cup squad, Davey decided to focus on her football career and joined state league side, St Kilda Sharks.
“For the time being, I’ve decided to focus on my footy,” the 21-year-old told foxsports.com.au.
“It was a decision that wasn’t taken lightly and there were a few emotions in there but I’ve decided to go with footy and it’s something I’m super, super excited about.
“It’s just going to be a new great challenge for me and I can’t wait to get involved in the Carlton Football Club.”
Davey played footy at junior level, but then decided to take up soccer, with the world game having better opportunities at professional level for women than AFL.
However, with the introduction of the national women's competition, her passion has been re-ignited.
“Initially I just intended to have a kick around down in St Kilda and it wasn't going to be serious at the time,” she said.
“I guess that first love was reignited and then things just went from there and I started getting opportunities to play in different squads and it became a huge thing for me.”
