The Western Bulldogs have farewelled Kirsty Lamb, Katie Lynch and Gabby Newton during the conclusion of the 2023 AFLW Trade Period.
Lamb informed the Club of her desire to explore a move to Port Adelaide for personal and lifestyle reasons earlier this week, with a deal involving 11 clubs reached yesterday..
The foundation Bulldog, 2018 Premiership player and 2022 S6 All Australian has totalled 67 games in the red, white and blue since her debut in round one, 2017.
Lamb said as difficult as the decision was, she could not be more thankful to the Club and its people for the last eight seasons.
“This has been one of the most difficult decisions of my life, but one I needed to make for both my football and life outside of football,” Lamb said.
“I have had eight wonderful seasons at the Club, and have made many lifelong friends and memories I will cherish forever. The 2018 Premiership was the clear highlight, but celebrating every win with the girls and the great times we’ve had together off-field are all incredibly special. I will miss everyone so much.
“I want to thank all of my teammates past and present, our coaches, and everyone who works at the Club for their support, as well as our brilliant supporters. I don’t want to individualise my thanks because of the sheer number of people that have been part of my journey – but I am very grateful to everyone that has helped shape me as a footballer and as a person.
“I’m excited about the new challenge at Port Adelaide, but will always have the Western Bulldogs in my heart."
Newton was drafted to the Kennel with the number one pick in 2019, playing 36 games in the red, white and blue.
She was selected in the 22under22 team and crowned the Club's Best First Year Player in her debut season.
Lynch arrived at the Club via a trade in the 2020 Sign and Trade Period, initially drafted to Collingwood with pick 11 in 2018.
She managed 35 games as a Bulldog, earning her maiden All Australian selection in 2022 (S6).
AFLW Head of List Management and Recruiting, Mick Sandry thanked the trio for their contributions across the years. “On behalf of the Club, we thank Kirsty, Katie and Gabby for everything they gave to the red, white and blue during their time," Sandry said. "They were much loved members of our program and will be missed by players, staff, fans and members. “To lose someone of Kirsty’s calibre in particular - who is a foundation player and premiership bulldog - is obviously disappointing, but the Club can understand her decision to seek a fresh start outside of Victoria for non-football related reasons. "We send our best wishes to all three for the rest of their AFLW careers.”
