Lucy Cronin’s Meteoric Rise to Prominence in the AFLW

 

When Lucy Cronin took to the field on the opening night of the 2024 AFLW season, she was still reeling from the shock of being selected for the Collingwood Magpies. The young defender had faced a tumultuous pre-season, marked by an injury that had kept her sidelined for an extended period. Despite these setbacks, Cronin’s determination and perseverance had ultimately paid off, earning her a spot in the team.

 

As she reflected on her debut match against Sydney, Cronin couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. “To be put in the position I was put in for Week One, playing on their key forward, I was just shocked honestly,” she admitted. “Coming out of a two-month rehab, it was definitely a bit shocking that they put me in for Week One. I was just hoping to get a game or two this year, so to be put in for Week One was awesome.”

 

In the months that followed, Cronin proved herself to be an invaluable asset to the Magpies. Her impressive performance against All-Australian forward Dakota Davidson in just her third game was a testament to her growing confidence and skill on the field. This was further underscored by her Rising Star nomination in her fifth game, cementing her status as one of the league’s most exciting young talents.

 

Cronin’s remarkable growth and development throughout the season ultimately led to her selection in the AFLW 22under22 team for 2024. This prestigious honor was a fitting recognition of her hard work and dedication, and marked her out as one of the most promising young players in the league. The news was made all the sweeter by the announcement of her two-year contract extension with the Magpies, securing her future with the club until the end of 2027.

 

As Cronin looked to the future, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. “I couldn’t believe it, to be honest, to be the only one from my draft year, so it’s awesome,” she said of her 22under22 selection. “I’m super pumped to be sticking around for a few more years. To be able to know that I’m part of a team that’s building constantly, with new staff and new coaches and hopefully some new talent coming through, is awesome. I couldn’t be happier about the future.”