Collingwood has proudly welcomed star midfielder Ash Centra as the club’s first draft pick in the 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft, securing her with Pick One.
Centra, a standout talent from Gippsland Power in the Coates Talent League Girls competition, is a basketballer-turned-footballer who dominated the 2024 season. The Seaspray local announced herself in style, collecting 47 disposals and kicking four goals in her opening game against the Murray Bushrangers. She went on to have six matches with over 30 disposals, including an incredible 30-disposal, four-goal performance against the Western Jets.
Her stellar season saw her average 27.1 disposals, 4.3 marks, 4.2 clearances, 4.1 tackles, and 18 goals across 2024, earning umpires’ votes in 10 of her 12 matches. Her accolades include being a two-time All-Australian at under-18 level, Victoria Country MVP, and the 2024 Coates Talent League Best and Fairest winner—the first Gippsland Power player to achieve this honor.
Centra is thrilled to join the black and white as Collingwood’s first draft pick.
“Being selected as the number one draft pick is an honor, and I’m excited to join such a passionate fan base,” Centra said. “It’s a dream come true to play AFLW, and I’m looking forward to learning and growing alongside Collingwood’s incredible players and coaches.”
General Manager of Women’s Football Jess Burger praised Centra’s ability to read the play, make quick decisions, and execute under pressure.
“At just 18, Ash represents a bright future for Collingwood. Her playmaking ability and finishing skills will be a fantastic boost to our side,” Burger said.
Collingwood’s history with number one picks is significant, with Ash Centra following in the footsteps of Josh Fraser, the club’s top pick in the 1999 National Draft. Fraser, now Collingwood’s Head of Development, presented Centra her Guernsey alongside AFLW Vice-Captain Brittany Bonnici, symbolizing the bright future ahead for this exciting young star.
