Western Bulldogs forward Isabel Huntington has requested a trade to the GWS Giants ahead of the AFLW trade window.
The 23-year-old, who is currently recovering from an ACL injury that will hamper her prospects for next season, has played 20 games for the Bulldogs since joining them in 2017.
The former No.1 draft selection claimed the club's best and fairest, AFLW Rising Star Award and an All-Australian selection in 2020, stamping her place in the competition.
Bulldogs' GM of Women's Football Debbie Lee says the side are disappointed but understanding of the forward's choice.
"It’s disappointing for us to lose someone like Izzy, who has been a strong performer on field and an established leader off it, and with such a bright future as a player ahead of her," she said.
"We fully understand Izzy’s need to move to Sydney for education and non-football related reasons, and we wish her well as she embarks the next stage on her football journey.
“Given Izzy’s standing in the game, her achievements to date and the Club’s investment in her development, we’ll work hard to ensure we are appropriately compensated through the AFLW’s player movement structure."
Huntington is likely to miss the upcoming season with her injury - the third of her career - which is expected to begin in August.
This hasn't stopped interest from the Giants however, as they were reported to be pressing for her signature.
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Huntington says the decision is based solely on life outside of footy, and wasn't an easy one.
"Requesting a move from the Doggies has been an incredibly difficult decision and one that has taken very careful consideration," she said.
"Ultimately, the decision to move is not football related, however. Having recently begun the long rehab process for my third ACL injury, in combination with the current part-time nature of the competition, it’s become increasingly clear to me that I can’t make life decisions solely based on football.
"With the opportunity to progress my studies and off-field work interstate, it is the right move for me at this time."
The 20-gamer leaves the club, fond of her time there, both on and off the field.
"I have absolutely adored my time at the Bulldogs across the past five years. I couldn’t be more thankful for what they have done for me and the connections I have built there," Huntington said.
"Pulling on the jumper 20 times with my teammates was an honour, and being involved in off-field endeavours such as working with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation was equally memorable.
"I am saddened to leave behind such a wonderful club and group of people within it, but I’m very grateful for their genuine support for me as a person, not just a footballer. The care I have received from the staff and my teammates throughout my journey here has been unbelievable and I will be eternally grateful for their support."
The decision comes days after star Dogs pair Kirsty Lamb and Ellie Blackburn announced their commitment to the club, while expansion club Hawthorn are understood to have interest in forward Bonnie Toogood.
