OVERVIEW

A veteran of the AFLW, Carlton was pleased to welcome the services of Elise O'Dea ahead of its 2021 campaign.

After an impressive four years on Melbourne's list, O'Dea found a new home in Carlton's elite young midfield after arriving at IKON Park alongside fellow Dee Maddy Guerin late last year.

Continuing her brilliant contested work at the highest level, O'Dea slotted seamlessly into the Blues' line up to play all nine games of the 2021 season.

Finishing in the top 10 for Carlton's top honours, O'Dea completed her first year as a Game Changer as an integral part of the the midfield mix - not to mention as part of the Behind the Game Changers podcast hosting mix.

BEST PERFORMANCE

It didn't take long for O'Dea to make her mark in Navy Blue, delivering her best performance of 2021 in Carlton's Round 3 with over St Kilda in Moorabbin.

Eager to get her side its first win of the season, O'Dea was everywhere on the day - whether it be gathering 21 disposals through the centre, floating forward for a goal or dropping back to apply defensive pressure where needed.

In what was a windy afternoon at Moorabbin, O'Dea showed her versatility as a player and the attacking force that would be a hallmark of her game for the remainder of the season.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

A first goal in Navy Blue is always memorable, but a team goal resulting from the assist of a former teammate is just that little bit sweeter.

O'Dea's former Darebin Falcon teammate Darcy Vescio artfully transitioned the ball into attack, quickly passing off to O'Dea to give her a first chance to slot in her new colours.

The ball sailed through surely and Blues came from across the ground to celebrate.