Ellie Bishop is an experienced player who is still young at just 20 years of age, and in 2023, tested herself at VFL Women's level. Representing the Western Bulldogs, Bishop averaged 13.1 disposals and 3.6 tackles. The inside midfielder picked up 14 clearances in a three-game purple patch mid-season as she was thrown on-ball to add extra strength and footy smarts to the mix. The performances included a 22-disposal, six-clearance and six-inside 50 game against Collingwood where she matched up well against the likes of Jess Bates.

Having come through the NSW-ACT pathway, Bishop still runs out for Ainslie Tricolours, and also managed seven games - the same amount as the Bulldogs - and she booted 12 goals across those matches, though five came in one game. She would go on to play an important role in Ainslie's premiership win over Belconnen.

From a draft profile perspective, Bishop's inside work is what stands out, with her strength and hands at ground level very good, along with her understanding of the game and use by hand or foot. She might not be the most athletic player, and does not get a stack of the ball all the time - all her other VFLW games were 15 disposals or less - but she knows how to use it. That, along with the fact she has also played in defence throughout her career, makes Bishop a versatile player who can impact matches in multiple ways.

STRENGTHS:

- Footy IQ
- Disposal
- Versatility
- Strength
- Contested work

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Athleticism
- Production

Picture credit: AFL Photos