THE GREATEST team of the last few years in the WAFL Women’s, Claremont is eyeing off an unprecedented third straight flag in 2026. The Tigers fans might have needed heart monitors during the finals series with both opposition sides having late shots on goal to win, but Claremont finished in front and took home yet another piece of silverware.

LAST SEASON

Finished: 1st (Premiership)
Wins: 13
Losses: 2
Draws: 1

Claremont achieved the incredible back-to-back feat, winning its third flag in four seasons. It was the toughest year yet for the Tigers who were challenged at different points but still finished on top, then out-lasted their two opponents in both finals to taste premiership glory.

OFF-SEASON RECRUITS

Claremont has had a relatively quiet off-season, and realistically the Tigers just get it done each year from what they have within the club. They welcome back talented forward Eva Campo who can add a spark to the side, while ex-Royal Kiahn Perry joins the Tigers, as does local star Maggie Smit.

Late in the off-season, the Tigers topped up with NSW/ACT talents Ruby Sargent-Wilson and Ahlani Eddy, the former of whom was the first ever Sydney Swans AFLW signing. She will be a key inclusion, while the ultra-fit Eddy will likely play off half-back for the Tigers, having played previously for Carlton VFLW, but most recently ran out in the AFL Sydney competition.

TOP-AGE DRAFT CHANCES

Claremont only has one top-ager in the West Australian Summer Squad, with India Bonadeo a seriously gifted utility. She starred as a bottom-ager at Under 16s level a few years back, and though she has had her injury interruptions, is ready to carve out a great season. Capable of playing on any line, she can win it in the air, and find the ball at the source, spreading forward to hit the scoreboard or impact in a big way.

PRESEASON DRAFT HOPES

Claremont has too many to individually name who are eligible to be picked up, with two-time grand final best on ground winner and league best and fairest winner Jayme Harken headlining the readymade prospects. Jacinta Valentini and Matilda Sergeant have top-level experience too, while Taylah Orzel and Bridie Garlick – daughter of former AFL player Simon – have been key players for the Tigers. Then of course there’s last year’s pair of Combine invitees who missed out in Juliet Kelly and Ella Gilbey who had club interest.

OTHERS TO WATCH

The reigning back-to-back premiers do not really have any holes across their side, though the loss ot Mackenzie Webb to East Fremantle certainly hurts. Her sister Georgia Webb can play a key role, while the likes of Rachel Ortlepp, Sarah Viney and Claire Ortlepp spread across each third in the ground. Developing talls Bec Anderson and Hannah Seaborn are two to watch as marking targets, while Matilda Husband and Abby Maynard provide important experience.

PREDICTION

Claremont simply has to be thereabout again, and the question will be whether or not the Tigers can fight off a host of teams coming for their title. Losing Webb is a big loss and that is the only major question mark around the club, because otherwise they look good again to challenge for a flag. Being the hunted does not worry the team and coach Jack Schwarze will have them ready to go in 2026.