Ruby Schleicher to leave Collingwood for return to WA
The AFLW captain is expected to join West Coast on a long-term deal, with two matches remaining in the Magpies’ season.
Collingwood AFLW captain Ruby Schleicher has confirmed she will depart the club after the season and move back to Western Australia next year. The 28-year-old announced her decision to teammates.
Schleicher has made 82 appearances for Collingwood since her selection in the inaugural AFLW draft in 2016. Recruited from East Fremantle, she has earned two All-Australian selections, claimed the club’s 2024 best and fairest and served as captain for two seasons.
In a statement on Collingwood’s website, Schleicher said leaving had been a difficult choice but was right for her life and career. She reflected on moving interstate at 18 and the difficulty of being away from a family to whom she remained close.
Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly said the club was disappointed by her departure but respected her wish to go home. He thanked Schleicher for her contribution and praised her support for younger players.
The Magpies have two matches remaining in their season and are 16th with one win. Schleicher is expected to sign a long-term contract with West Coast.
