Irish Star Blaithin Bogue Aims for AFLW Debut with North Melbourne

Just ten days before the 2024 AFLW season kicks off, Blaithin Bogue has already made a strong impression on her new North Melbourne Kangaroos coaches. The Fermanagh star, who was welcomed to the club with a hilarious carpool karaoke session by fellow Irish teammates Erika O’Shea, Niamh Martin, and Australian Ella Slocombe, has demonstrated her ability to learn quickly and is working hard to earn her AFLW debut.

Bogue's debut could come as early as next Sunday, when North Melbourne faces reigning premiers Brisbane Lions in a rematch of last year's Grand Final. North Melbourne AFLW list manager Flynn Loft highlighted Bogue's impressive athleticism and her ability to set up play in the forward line, consistently finding the scoreboard. “Blaithin has strong athletic traits that will translate well to AFLW and stood out across her performances for Fermanagh, with her ability to set up play in the forward half and consistently hit the scoreboard," Loft said.

The Tempo Maguires woman signed a two-year contract with the Kangaroos, who finished as runners-up last year. If she continues to impress, Bogue could be in line for a significant salary, as AFLW players have seen a significant increase in their earnings in recent years.

Last year, AFLW players received a 29% pay rise, bringing the base salary to $AUD60,000 (£31,000) from $AUD46,000 (£23,800). By 2027, salaries are projected to reach $AUD82,000 (£42,400), with total player payments exceeding $AUD32.3 million (£16.7 million).

Despite the growing popularity of the AFLW and the record number of Irish women on club rosters (around three dozen this year), the future of the league remains uncertain. New AFLW general manager Emma Moore has stated that establishing a concrete date for future seasons is her top priority. Currently, the season runs from August to November, with the Grand Final taking place in early December.

This schedule has allowed Irish AFLW players to compete in the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) without any scheduling conflicts during the AFLW off-season. However, a potential shift in the AFLW calendar could lead to clashes between the two codes, potentially impacting the availability of Irish players. The future of the Irish contingent in the AFLW, while currently strong, may be impacted by these ongoing developments.