Western Bulldogs forward Kirsten McLeod has been moved to the Inactive List for the 2022 NAB AFLW season after battling ongoing concussion symptoms.

McLeod has been working closely with the Club’s medical team to manage symptoms, but ultimately has not been able to return to play.

“Time away from playing footy will allow me to make my health and wellbeing my number one priority,” McLeod said.

“As much as I’m shattered to be missing the 2022 season, this break will allow me to build and work towards being as healthy and fit as possible for 2023 onwards.”

McLeod was drafted to the Bulldogs with their fourth selection in the 2016, and has kicked 21 goals from 30 games.

She also featured in the Club’s 2018 AFLW premiership team. 

General Manager of Women’s Football, Debbie Lee, said she hopes McLeod’s wellbeing will benefit from the additional break from football.

“We’re terribly disappointed we won’t see ‘Macca’ out on the field this season, but her health and wellbeing is paramount and obviously the number one priority here,” Lee said.

“This break will give her the best chance not only to return to footy sooner, but most importantly to resume her day-to-day life too.

“We’ll miss her out there, but have no doubts she’ll remain just as involved in our 2022 campaign from the sidelines. She is an important part of our team.”