Experienced defender Janelle Cuthbertson has signed with Port Adelaide for the 2023 season. 

Joining the club within the AFLW priority signing period, Cuthbertson is one of four priority signings (including one underage player) Port Adelaide is allowed ahead of Season 8. 

Playing 24 games for Fremantle spanning a four-season career, Cuthbertson was named All-Australian after a breakout year in 2021. 

She is widely regarded as one of the best intercept defenders in the competition and will provide added height and leadership to a young Port Adelaide back line. 

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Highlights: Janelle Cuthbertson | PTV

Janelle Cuthbertson has joined Port Adelaide during the priority signing period.

Standing at 175 centimetres, the 32-year-old had a burgeoning tennis career before making the decision to switch codes. 

After competing in the Australian Open as a junior, Cuthbertson relocated to the US and played college tennis while studying at Texas A&M University.  

She attained a Bachelor of Sport Management before moving home to Perth, where she has since experienced a successful professional career across cricket, netball and local government. 

The talented tall is eager for a change of scenery and a fresh perspective to her football. 

“I’m super excited and really looking forward to a bit of a change coming across to Port Adelaide,” Cuthbertson said.  

“Part of my values are that I’m always looking for growth, change and looking to challenge myself and continue to learn. I really responded to some of the things that Lauren (Arnell) and Naomi (Maidment) had to say when I spoke to them.  

Cuthbertson is widely regarded as one of the best intercept defenders in the competition. Image: Matt Sampson.

“I think the club is heading in a really good direction. We’ve got a lot of young talent so I’m just excited to see how I can fit in and how I can help the group move forward. 

“It was a really appealing decision for me to come across and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and getting going with the players.” 

Cuthbertson will join some familiar faces at Port Adelaide, with Gemma Houghton, Maggie MacLachlan and Jade De Melo all previously listed at the Dockers. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Janelle to Port Adelaide,” list manager Maidment said. 

“She adds valuable experience, height and skill to our group and will contribute so much with her mature football IQ. 

“After more than a decade in elite sport, Janelle understands and embraces the high-performance environment and will set high standards for herself and inspire those around her.”