CARLTON AFLW defender Gab Pound will be staying in Navy Blue until the end of 2023 after signing a two-season contract extension.

Pound is an instrumental member of the Game Changers defence, working alongside the likes of Kerryn Peterson and Mua Laloifi to form a strong barrier which was at its staunch best at the end of last season.

Pound is a dual All-Australian and has been a member of the Game Changers since the beginning, being drafted by Carlton with the Club's fourth selection (pick No.30) in the 2016 NAB AFL Women’s Draft, and making her debut in Round 1, 2017, in the Club and the league's inaugural match at IKON Park against Collingwood. 

The 27-year-old is easily spotted on-field, with her signature headband and long sleeves, and was named one of Carlton’s top performers several times during season 6, including a 'Best on Ground' against the Giants in Round 8.

She had a career-high 23 disposals against the Gold Coast Suns in Round 9 and also laid five tackles during the match, a career-high effort for the defender. 

Pound is looking forward to working with her teammates – especially the ‘backline crew’ – for another two seasons.

“I’m happy to be staying with the Game Changers for another two seasons and am looking forward to continuing the good progress we made during the second half of last season,” she said.

“It is fantastic to be able to work so closely with our team of defenders and we’re constantly aiming to get the best out of each other.

“The Club is a great place to be and I’m thrilled to be playing with this team for another two seasons.”

Carlton General Manager of Women’s Football Brett Munro says Pound is a key member of the program.

“Gab is a core member of our defensive line-up so we are elated to have her commit to the Club for a further two seasons,” Munro said.

“She is the ultimate team player and is determined to work towards team success which is something we value at Carlton.

“Gab’s work rate is something our developing players can look up to and we are excited to see what Gab can help us achieve over the next two seasons.”