Fermanagh Ladies captain Joanne Doonan will make the move to Australia having signed for Carlton Blues Football Club in the AFLW.

Kinawley's Doonan, who will lead her county out at Croke Park as they look to secure the All Ireland Junior title when they face Louth on Sunday September 15, is the first ever Irish-born AFLW signing for the Blues.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed a decorated Gaelic football career with Kinawley, Fermanagh and Queens University, and her athleticism made her a clear standout at the CrossCoders camp in May with her speed, agility and endurance setting her apart.

Doonan will make the move to Melbourne in time for the start of pre-season training.

The player said she is really looking forward to embracing a new game when she arrives ahead of AFLW 4.0.

“I am really looking forward to the challenge of AFLW,” Doonan told Carlton Football Club website. 

“Since the CrossCoders camp in May, I haven’t been able to get a football out of my hands. 

“November can’t come quick enough so I can get stuck into training with the girls and learn as much as I can from Harf and the coaches.”

Carlton General Manager of Women’s Football Ash Brown added.

“Joanne is a terrific character and she has proven that she is committed and ready to take on the challenge of AFLW." 

“Combining her leadership with her elite athleticism, we are really excited about what Joanne will bring to our playing group.

“We are thrilled to welcome Joanne to the Club and we look forward to helping her develop here at Ikon Park.”