Port Adelaide's AFLW players welcomed their loved ones to Alberton on Saturday. Image: Michael Sullivan.

Port Adelaide’s AFLW players were joined by their loved ones at Alberton Oval on Saturday, for the club’s second annual AFLW family day. 

Well-known faces in attendance included Peta Squire, Australian netball star and mum of young ruck Matilda Scholz, and former Port Adelaide player and uncle of the Cockatoo-Motlap twins, Che Cockatoo-Collins. 

Abbey Dowrick was joined by her sister, Adelaide AFLW player McKenzie, while Olivia Levicki’s husband, former Norwood and West Adelaide SANFL player Patrick Levicki, was also present. 

Erin Phillips’s three oldest children, Blake, Brooklyn and Drew came along, but new baby Londyn is yet to make her debut visit to Alberton. 

Erin Phillips' three eldest children, Blake, Brooklyn and Drew enjoying the AFLW family day. Image: Michael Sullivan, PAFC.

Port Adelaide chairman David Koch, chief executive Matthew Richardson and head of AFLW Juliet Haslam mingled with guests, while 10-time Port Adelaide premiership coach John Cahill also made a special appearance. 

“We pride ourselves on being a family club – once a part of Port Adelaide, always a part of Port Adelaide,” Haslam said, addressing the group. 

“That’s why days like today are so important. We are really excited for the season ahead and as special people in our staff and players’ lives, it’s fitting that we get to celebrate with you.” 

10-time Port Adelaide premiership coach John Cahill made a special appearance at the event alongside CEO Matthew Richardson. Image: Michael Sullivan, PAFC.

After a tough training session in chilly conditions, players, staff and guests enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch provided by The Precinct, followed by a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony conducted by past player, Uncle Mickey O’Brien. 

Families later toured the W facility to see the work that goes on behind the scenes of an AFLW program. 

For the club’s eight new players and two new coaches, it was an opportunity for their families to see the facilities for the first time. 

Uncle Mickey O’Brien conducted a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony for the AFLW group. Image: Michael Sullivan, PAFC.

“At Port Adelaide, we recruit not only on talent, but also on character, so that speaks volumes about each of you,” Haslam said of the new additions. 

“We can’t wait to see what you bring to the group this year, both on and off the track.” 

The AFLW season will get under way on the first weekend of September, with a fixture to be announced within the coming weeks.