Acfirmed Achilles injury for North AFLW player Bruton
Star player Jenna Bruton of North Melbourne suffered a partial achilles rupture in the grand final. She will require six months to heal, but she may be ready for the start of the next AFLW season.
In the first moments of the Brisbane Lions’ 17-point loss on Sunday, Bruton was forced to the ground after hurting her right achilles while jumping to try to smother the ball.
The 28-year-old will need to recover for nine to twelve months if she doesn’t fully rupture the tendon, as confirmed by scans. However, it will take time for her to return to full health.
After an injury sidelined her earlier in the season, Jenna has worked so hard, according to a statement from Nathan Hrovat, the head of women’s football at North Melbourne.
“Everyone in North Melbourne, including Jenna, found it extremely difficult to watch her lose the grand final so early.
It was difficult to replace her on Sunday because she is a vital member of our team.
“We know she will tackle her rehab with a gritty determination and be back in 2024 better than ever.”
The Kangaroos greatly missed gun midfielder Bruton’s presence around the ball against Brisbane. She averaged 21.7 disposals and seven tackles per game, with the exception of the grand final. Confirmation of Bruton’s setback coincides with North Melbourne’s celebration of signing fellow star Ash Riddell to a new four-year contract that will keep him with the team until the end of 2027. “We are thrilled to retain the services of a player like Ash for four more years,” Hrovat said.
“Ash had yet another fantastic season in 2023 and keeps raising the bar with her diligence and work ethic.
“She has become an important leader in our program and we look forward to watching her take her game even further over the coming years.”
Like star midfielder Jasmine Garner, Riddell has made a long-term commitment to North Melbourne.
Named the AFL coaches’ and players’ associations’ 2023 best player, Garner signed a contract with the Kangaroos last month that will keep him there through the end of 2027.
