GEELONG has traded indigenous youngster Stephanie Williams to Richmond in a deal that has landed the Cats a former Geelong Falcon.
Ingrid Houtsma was drafted by the Tigers with pick no.50 in last year’s AFLW draft but didn’t play a game in the 2022 season.
From Darwin, Williams, who also played locally with St Joseph’s, joined Geelong via pick no.27 in the 2020 AFLW draft and played four matches in her debut that season.
However, she was unable to break into the Cats’ lineup in 2022.
“Richmond presents a great opportunity for Stephanie to continue to grow, and expand on the hard work she has put into her training and AFLW journey to date,” Johnson said.
“We thank Stephanie for her commitment to Geelong and wish her well as she embarks on this next chapter.”
At 176cm, 18-year-old Houtsma will provide Geelong with some added height.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ingrid to the club and look forward to watching her continue to grow and develop as a footballer at the Cats.” AFLW boss Brett Johnson said.
“Ingrid’s talent will complement our list, and we see her as a versatile, long-term prospect for our club.”
She played eight games for the Falcons on their way to the NAB League Girls Grand Final in 2021 and represented Vic Country at the National Championships.
Williams is the third confirmed departure from Geelong’s 2022 list, following the retirement of Dani Higgins and defection of inaugural Cat Sophie van de Heuvel to expansion club Essendon.
The Cats are holding picks 17, 51 and 67 in next month’s AFLW Draft.
Twitter: @tom_king79
