From the grassy fields of local clubs to the dazzling lights of the international stage, 21 year-old Brooke Bailey’s rise in the world of AFL and Oztag is a tale of determination, skill and an unwavering passion for the game.

Brooke’s Oztag career spans 16 years and includes representing Penrith and the West Sydney Tigers in various State Cup tournaments. In 2023, she played for Penrith Women’s 20’s and captained the Australian Women’s 21’s in the International Tag World Cup in Limerick, Ireland.

The Women’s 21s Tagaroos had an incredible World Cup campaign, finishing off with a masterclass Grand Final performance, which saw them defeat New Zealand Exiles 10-2 and return home as World Cup Champions.

“That was definitely a highlight,” said Brooke. “Getting to play for and captain my country in Ireland.”
In 2021, the Glenmore Park local ventured into the world of AFL and quickly established herself as a rising star in the game.

“I love playing both (Oztag and AFL) not only because they’re great sports, but it allows me to push myself and display the skills I work hard on individually and in a team environment,” Brooke said.

Playing for the East Coast Eagles in the AFL Sydney Women’s Premier Division, Brooke has played an integral role in securing back to back premierships for the team in 2022 and 2023. So much so, that she caught the eye of the Sydney Swans AFLW, joining their train-on squad last year.

Brooke’s growing prowess in AFL has shaped her goals for the 2024 season.

“I have decided to focus on AFL this year,” said Brooke. “I would love to win three in a row with the East Coast Eagles, however my end goal is to play a good season of football and hope that my hard work gets me to an AFLW club by 2025.”

As Brooke Bailey continues to dazzle on the field, she doesn’t just chase the ball – she chases greatness, setting a new benchmark for aspiring AFLW athletes everywhere.