THE Port Adelaide Football Club is delighted to announce it has signed exciting forward/midfielder Caitlin Wendland to its AFLW list from Central District.

Wendland joins the club as an injury replacement player after two list spots were opened up with Hannah Dunn (pregnancy) and Lauren Young (knee) being moved to the inactive list.

Still just 19 years old, Wendland already boasts experience in two AFLW programs, having spent a period as a train on player with Port Adelaide in 2023 before being recruited by eventual premier Brisbane as a replacement player.

She played three games for the Lions before returning to South Australia.

The hard tackling left footer only started playing football three years ago and is one of three triplets to have played for Central.

Named in the SANFLW’s 2023 Team of the Year after averaging 15 disposals and seven tackles, Wendland was a key part of the Bulldogs’ premiership side including racking up 21 tackles and three clearances in the grand final.

Port Adelaide List Manager Naomi Maidment said Wendland had taken her game to another level in 2024 and deserved her chance.

“Caitlin is averaging 16 disposals and has kicked three goals across nine games for Central District in 2024,” Maidment said of the former representative cricketer and Trinity College student.

“Her weapon is her ball use, particularly by foot. She has a penetrating left foot kick which will be an asset for us.

“Caitlin is also very strong in the contest having moved to a midfield role with Centrals this year and averaging nearly five clearances per game.

“It was great for Caitlin to experience being on such a strong list at Brisbane last year. She has no doubt learnt a lot about her game and has brought these lessons back to the SANFLW.

“She has deserved this opportunity.” 

Port Adelaide will continue to explore players to fill its remaining list vacancy before the playing group’s return for pre-season training on June 3.