WINNING its first ever AFLW wooden spoon, Collingwood’s prize was the number one pick and the Magpies selected a readymade star and arguably the most skilful draft prospect of all-time. The black and whites also scooped up the most dangerous general forward and a competitive father-daughter prospect.

>> EVERY PICK: National Draft | Recap

DRAFT HAUL

National Draft:

1. Ash Centra
26. Georgia Knight
42. Violet Patterson

While its first wooden spoon in 25 years is not something to celebrate, the trade-off was the fact the Magpies managed to secure the number one pick for the first time in that period. They opted for clear cut choice Ash Centra, with the skilful utility able to play across all three lines, with elite vision and decision making. She will immediately be one of the standouts across not just the club, but the league as well.

Joining Centra in the black and white was Eastern Ranges goalsneak Georgia Knight. Knight kicked the most goals at the national championships with nine, including five at Marvel Stadium. The Vic Metro representative also won All-Australian honours, while coming second in the Coates Talent League Girls goalkicking. A proven sharpshooter, she can kick goals from anywhere, something the Magpies desperately lacked in 2024.

For the Magpies’ third and final selection, they matched a bid on father-daughter prospect, Violet Patterson. Following in the footsteps of father Stephen (96 games), Patterson has played her junior career at Glenelg, and been a consistent performer with high-level competitiveness. Her character sets her above, though on-field her combination of athleticism and toughness makes her a valuable all-round midfield or wing.

In terms of their impact in 2025, expect Centra to be a Round 1 starter if fit. She will look a class above on the field with her ability to pinpoint targets and turn on a dime. She has the fitness and smarts to make an impact immediately, as does Patterson. While likely to play on the outside or as a pressure forward first due to Collingwood’s main strength being its inside brigade, she will add spark to the team.

Speaking of spark, Knight will be a point of difference up forward, but will need to just build her endurance up in order to play at the elite level. If she can have a big preseason and be right to go, then she will arguably be Collingwood’s most dangerous forward too. In the end, the Magpies added skill, sharp shooting and competitiveness to the side.