Queensland Women’s football stalwart Jade Pregelj announced her retirement today following a five-year AFLW career with the Lions and SUNS.
After joining the Gold Coast SUNS in their inaugural list in 2020, Pregelj was signed by the Lions as a delisted free agent prior to the 2023 NAB AFLW Season.
"I'd like to thank the club, the fans and the girls for bringing me into the Lions family over the past two seasons" Pregelj said.
"It's been an honour to go to work with exceptional humans like Bre Koenen, Ally Anderson and of course Kate Lutkins (Clarkson); and the new draftees this year are incredible."
"Despite not playing as much football as I planned, I am grateful to have been on the list for a small part of this powerhouse club's journey". As Belle Dawes says, ‘We do this’.”
Lions Head of Women’s football, Breeanna Brock, thanked Pregelj not only for the role she played as a senior player at the Club but the mark she will leave on football in Queensland too.
“Jade has played such a key role for the Club particularly mentoring the young kids who she travelled with for match simulation games during the season,” Brock said.
“She has left a legacy at this Club through those players who have all learnt so much from her.
“On a broader scale, Jade was a highly touted junior who excelled and help put women’s footy on the map.
“After making the decision to pursue a career in the armed forces which she still maintains to this day, Jade returned to top level football with the SUNS demonstrating her talent, dedication and perseverance.
“We wish Jade all the best with her future endeavours and thank her for her contributions to this Club.”
Pregelj stamped herself as one of the best female talents in Queensland prior to the AFLW’s inception, often earning praise for her courage and elite work-rate.
Playing in the Queensland Women’s competition, Pregelj won the league Best & Fairest award back-to-back in 2010 and 2011.
She stepped away from the game in 2012 to focus on her teaching career before switching professions to work with the Royal Australian Engineers as a lieutenant in the Army, operating out of the RAAF base at Amberley.
Pregelj played 20 AFLW games across a five-year career making her Club debut against Richmond in Round 1 last year.
After injuring her ACL last season, Pregelj played a pivotal role in mentoring the draftees and players who were selected to play in match simulation games during this season.
