THE CARLTON Football Club has finalised its VFLW squad ahead of the 2025 season, with a blend of emerging talent and experienced campaigners.  

Returning to the side after a trip up West is Octavia Di Donato, who was part of West Coast’s AFLW squad as a Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) signing last year, featuring in five games.  
 
Di Donato bolsters Carlton’s list with her high level of experience and elite athleticism, as well as her on-field leadership and clean ball movement, which are key features of her game.  
    
A fresh addition to Carlton’s VFLW list is Nadia Von Bertouch, who joins the Club from Box Hill’s VFLW program, adding further experience and versatility to the Blues’ midfield group.  
   
Also joining the squad is promising young talent Sasha Pearce, who has progressed through the Coates Talent League with the Bendigo Pioneers as well as Scout Howden who last year Co-captained the Sandringham Dragons.    

Several players from last season have recommitted to the Club, including Amy Trindade and Steph Demeo which will provide crucial continuity heading into the 2025 campaign.   
 
Carlton’s VFLW Captain and 2024 Best and Fairest winner Eliza Wood has been elevated to the Blues’ AFLW list in 2025.   
      
Under the tutelage of the new senior coach Aasta O’Connor, Carlton’s VFLW side is looking to have a strong showing in the upcoming VFLW season.  
 
“It is great to see several players continue in our VFLW program and show their trust and commitment to the program we are building here,” VFLW Senior Coach Aasta O’Connor said.  
   
“It’s also been fantastic to welcome new players to our group, each bringing unique attributes and great energy that has been a great complement to our team over pre-season.  
 
“We are all excited to welcome back Octavia, who spent the latter part of 2024 playing for West Coast Eagles and putting in a wealth of hard work. 
 
“Overall all our players have had a really solid pre-season and I cannot wait to see what this group can achieve together in 2025.” 

With the season starting this Saturday at Arden Street (9:15am) , Blues fans are encouraged to get down and support Carlton in what will be a thrilling triple header against North Melbourne.