Dockers AFLW star to join Thunder in massive coup

AFLW star and former Australian netballer Ash Brazill will head up Peel Thunder’s ATCO WAFLW program in a massive coup for the club and competition.

The Dockers defender will retire at the end of the 2026 AFLW season to take up a newly-created dual role Peel Thunder’s WAFLW team.

The 56-game AFLW player, who also played for Collingwood before joining Fremantle ahead of the 2024 season, told teammates of her decision at a team meeting ahead of Sunday’s clash with Richmond at Ikon Park.

Brazill said she was excited for the next chapter but was still all in on winning a premiership with the Dockers first.

“We (Dockers AFLW coach Lisa Webb and I) did have a conversation about it and Peel definitely said they’d try and make it work,” Brazill said.

“But for me, I’ve been lucky enough to have the most incredible coaches who are extremely dedicated. They’re full in, and you know, maybe if I was an assistant coach, would I be able to do that? But as a head coach, I want to give these players all of me. I want to be completely in, completely dedicated.”

Peel Thunder CEO Daniel Bandy said the club was delighted to bring a person of Brazill’s calibre on board.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ash Brazill to the Club. Ash brings an elite level of sporting experience, leadership and energy to the role, and her appointment is a significant step forward for our Women’s Program,” Bandy said.

“Ash also understands what it takes to operate in an elite sporting environment, and we’re confident she will help drive a culture built around high standards, professionalism, accountability and a commitment to continuous improvement. We believe Ash has the skills and passion to make a real impact, and we’re excited about what the next chapter looks like under her leadership.”

The Thunder had a tough 2026 campaign, going winless and finishing last on the ladder.

Their last WAFLW premiership was back in 2021 against Swan Districts.