Welcome to Norwood, Ellie Poke

The Norwood Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of Ellie Poke to its Senior Women’s playing list.

Poke is from the Wynyard Football Club in north west Tasmania and for the last two seasons has represented the Tasmania Devils in the Coates Talent League.

The 18-year-old is a small defender, playing all 13 games for the Devils last year who finished second in the Coates Talent League.

She also pulled on the Wynyard guernsey on six occasions in 2024, helping the Cats to the North West Football League Grand Final.

Across her six matches for the Cats, she was named among the best players four times.

Norwood SANFLW Coach Brad Ferrall welcomed Poke to the squad.

“Candice Belbin helped us with the Ellie connection, they are good friends from Tassie and played footy together,” he said.

“She’s got leg speed and uses the ball really well as a small defender, attacking half back type player.

“When she settles in she will be really good for our program.”

Poke joins Amalie Innes, Timeka Cox and Georgie Jaques as key signings at Norwood in 2024.

“It’s great to have Georgie back with us, she’s a massive in for us on the field, but also leadership and culture wise.” Ferrall said.

“She got drafted to Port Adelaide in 2023 and spent a couple years in their AFLW program so it’s good to get her back. She will be a real addition to our back half, and provide some great experience.

Jaques rucked for Norwood during the 2023 season, but due to the rapid rise of young ruck Kate Alexander and consistent performer Rosie Boon, Ferrall said he could utilise the 21-year-old former Power player elsewhere.

“With Georgie in the back line it will take a bit of pressure off Emily Bartsch who takes the best forward every week,” Ferrall said.

“It will take a bit of time for Georgie to settle back in because she hasn’t played since she left Norwood due to her knee injury.”

Ferrall was also excited by the signing of former North Adelaide forward Timeka Cox, who spent the 2024 season at Broadview in the Adelaide Footy League.

“Ali (Ferrall, Norwood Development League Coach) coached her at State level a few years ago and she really rates her,” Brad Ferrall said.

“Timeka been great out on the track so far and it’s fantastic to have her on board, she’s a good person and we can help her to keep developing.”