THE CARLTON Football Club has continued to strengthen the depth of its AFLW playing group, with the signing of Irish talent Maria Cannon.  

Representing County Mayo in Gaelic football, Cannon is an elite runner with an exciting attacking mindset. Her ability to find space and successfully deliver the ball to a teammate was a standout trait for recruiters when they visited last year.  

Cannon will feel right at home at IKON Park, becoming the seventh Irish player currently on the list across both AFL and AFLW programs at Carlton. She’s the third Irish recruit for the Blues this AFLW off-season, following the acquisitions of Síofra O’Connell and Aisling Reidy late last year. 

Outside of football, the 22-year-old is currently studying to be a primary teacher at Dublin City University, playing in their Gaelic team. 

“Maria has a high level of professionalism which was evident throughout the way she goes about preparing for her games as well as the recruitment process,” Head of AFLW Ash Naulty said.  

“She is an attacking forward and dangerous in front of goal. The raw speed and significant running capacity she possesses along with her ability to transition the ball across the field cleanly, will make her a great asset to our team. 

“We have seen such a growth in Dayna and Erone across their time at Carlton. In just her first year Erone was presented with the Best First year player award and Dayna placed within the top 10 in last year's Best and Fairest. 

“We trust that Maria will have the adequate support to excel in the AFLW as she develops alongside Siofra and Aisling. 

“Maria is another exciting recruit from Ireland: we are really proud of the immense work our recruiters are doing over there to find us the best talent." 

Carlton now has one remaining list spot after Kerryn Peterson was placed on the inactive list earlier this week.