Adelaide recruit Hannah Ewings says she is feeling refreshed and ready to embark on a new chapter in her footy career with a new Club.
The 20-year-old joined the Crows during the 2024 AFLW trade period, after spending three seasons at Port Adelaide, where she played 18 games and won the AFLW’s Rising Star award and the Power’s inaugural best and fairest.
However, Ewings missed the 2024 AFLW season due to personal reasons.
Speaking to AFC Media, Ewings said she was excited by the opportunity Adelaide presented her.
“I’m feeling really good at the moment, I had that year off to reflect and I’m really glad I went through those challenges because I’ve come out on the brighter side, and ended up here,” Ewings said.
“I lost my way a little bit this year, and ended up taking some personal leave, but I feel really refreshed now and excited by the opportunity to be around a new group and part of the environment the group has built here.”
Despite starting her AFLW career at Alberton, Ewings has always had strong ties to West Lakes, having gone through the Bridgestone Crows Academies program as a junior.
“From conversations I’d had with the crew here at the Crows it seems like a great fit, and I could not be happier to be back home,” Ewings said.
“I grew up in Whyalla, which was affiliated with North Adelaide as well as the Crows Academy, and I was lucky enough to be selected in both programs as a junior, where I was able to fast track my development.
“From there, Chelsea Randall, Hatchy (Anne Hatchard), and even Erin Phillips were there coaching me, and they all had such a great influence on my journey.
“To be back where it all kind of started now, I couldn’t be happier, it definitely feels like a bit of a full circle moment for me and it's a really nice, warm feeling.”
Two players Ewings is particularly excited to link up with are former skipper Chelsea Randall and three-time Best and Fairest winner Hatchard.
Randall played a key role in the Whyalla product’s developments throughout her time in the academy, while she won a SANFLW premiership alongside Hatchard as a 16-year-old in 2020.
“They are unbelievable players, let alone people as well who have had a great influence on my career so far, and I can’t wait to be able to work with them again,” Ewings said.
“I think they are going to put me under their wing and make me their little project, which is super exciting for me.
“Being able to play AFLW with Hatchy and Chels is a dream come true for me, and running out with them will be a special moment.”
Looking ahead to Season 2025, Ewings said she was keen to get to know her new teammates and learn Adelaide's game plan.
“Earning the respect from all the coaches, players and staff is my first priority,” Ewings said.
“From there it's just about putting in the work. I've already connected with the High Performance Team, and we’ve already mapped out a bit of a training program which will be good.
“Having that year off, building my fitness back up will be crucial, and I can’t wait to take on the challenge.”
