Carlton’s Phoebe McWilliams has called time after an incredible career.
The star forward landed at the Blues as part of a trade with Geelong in 2022 and brought a wealth of experience in AFLW as a key forward, already being a three-time, club-leading goalkicker.
She has been a pioneer of the game, playing in the exhibition matches for both the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne and then going on to sign as a priority player at the GWS Giants in 2016 and an inaugural player at Geelong in 2019.
McWilliams recently reached the 50th-game milestone in Round 2 of the 2023 season, marking an important return from injury, having not played at the top level since fracturing her navicular in Round 4 of Season 7.
The 38-year-old was recruited from the St Kilda Sharks (VFLW) and made her debut against the Adelaide Crows, Round 1 2017 and went on to be GWS’ leading goal kicker in 2017 & 2018.
After 14 games and 14 goals with GWS she moved to Geelong for the 2019 season where she played a further 31 games and was Geelong’s leading goalkicker in Season 6.
McWilliams was also known for her elite marking skills, twice nominated in 2018 and 2019 for mark of the year.
McWilliams said she was grateful for the support of the Club and the fans of Carlton.
“Everyone involved at the Club, including the Carlton fans are amazing and have embraced me wholeheartedly. The Club has been immensely supportive during my time here, especially the medical and S&C team for all the hours they put into helping me during my rehab process last year,” McWilliams said.
“My career within the AFLW has been unforgettable. Being recruited as a 31-year-old I never thought I would play eight seasons at three amazing clubs. I am eternally grateful to those who have played a part in my 17-year football journey including eight years in the AFLW.
“I am grateful for the opportunity and am proud of all I have achieved; it has been an indescribable eight years. Even though my time is coming to a close, I am honoured to have played a small part in not only the AFLW but also the new era of Carlton. I cannot wait to continue to see where the Club goes and watch future young guns such as Mia Austin and Keeley Sherar establish their careers.
“It has been incredible to watch the AFLW evolve from the first season to now. When I grew up there were no opportunities for women in football, I am so proud that I can say that I was able to play for three AFLW clubs, something I never thought would be possible growing up. To see so many of the younger generation pick up a football and have so many opportunities to play makes my heart full.”
Senior Coach Mathew Buck said McWilliams has been a well-respected player from the very inception of the AFLW.
“Phoebe is someone who has given her everything to the Club and the game. She is a highly regarded player within the playing and coaching group both on and off the field,” Buck said.
“Being the leading goalkicker at both the Cats and Giants is an incredible achievement and is evidence of the drive and hard work Phoebe continually puts into her craft and her commitment to bettering not only herself but those around her.
“It hasn’t been easy over the last couple of years for Phoebe, but the resilience she showed to get back onto the field is a testament to who she is as a player.
“We thank her for her contribution to the Club and are appreciative of her willingness to share her extensive knowledge as we have shaped this new era of our program.
“I feel very privileged to have been a small part of her journey and wish her well in her retirement.”
