SFLW: Claremont shapes up for flag defence, key trio re-sign
Claremont will chase a third straight SFLW premiership this season and all signs are pointing to the Magpies again being the team to beat. Plus, there’s been plenty of big announcements across the club.
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Claremont might just lay claim to being the busiest local footy club off the field in Tasmania in recent months.
The Southern Football League club has made a thrilling start to its year with several massive announcements across its men’s and women’s programs.
The women’s team is preparing to chase a dream premiership three-peat and defender Rachael Duffy is excited about what lays ahead.
Cameron Duffy has again been named as coach and will play in the club’s senior men side when time permits.
“Our main core group will remain and we’ve had some other new faces come along to training and that’s off their own back too,” Rachael said.
“That idea of not just building a successful team on the field but a strong culture off the field as well has made it appealing for others as well.
“There’s a couple who might step away but that’s usually a change we see every year.”
And the Magpies’ premiership bid has only been strengthened in recent weeks with the announcement of several key re-signings.
Two-time club best-and-fairest and reigning league medal winner Nat Smedley has recommitted in a major boost.
Key position utility Ash Saunders is back for her second season after joining in 2024 from the South East Suns while three-time premiership hero Kelli Smith has signed on.
“One of the best things about the program is being transparent between each other,” Rachael said.
“Sometimes life gets in the way so we don’t stress if you can’t make a full session or train every night. That’s one of the great things about our club community.”
Claremont’s women’s program has also been confirmed to grow after the club’s bid to field a masters team was accepted, with the Magpies confirming the news on Monday night.
Brett Carr has been appointed as the coach.
“He’s no stranger to coaching or the game and has always been a great supporter of local footy, in both the men and women’s competitions,” the club said in a statement.
“We are very grateful to have BC apart of our club and supporting our first women’s masters team at Claremont.
“A meet and greet will also be scheduled in the coming weeks for players interested in joining the team. Keep an eye out for those details.”
Meanwhile, the men’s team announced three recruits in recent days with experienced forward Shannon Leatch headlining the signings.
He has experienced in the Adelaide Football League.
“Shannon is the player that will help guide our younger players and help them strive to be better,” the club said.
Kayden Curtain, the club’s colts best-and-fairest winner in 2023, has returned alongside Asher Atkin who has come through the junior ranks of Brighton and Glenorchy.
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