From Birmingham to the VFLW: Massie & Hibberd Make History

Two British players, Lucy Massie and Freya Hibberd, have taken a major step in their AFL journeys after making their VFLW debuts in Round 1 on Saturday 16 May. Their rise from university sport in England to state-level football in Australia is a clear example of the growing pathway between the UK and Australian game.

Both players began their AFL journeys at the University of Birmingham. Massie first picked up the sport for fun after competing in athletics and badminton, while Hibberd came from a hockey background and was keen to try something new. What started as a side interest quickly developed into something far more serious.

The pair later moved into the London scene, initially playing with Wimbledon Hawks in 2022 before establishing themselves with the South East London Giants. Massie joined in 2023 and Hibberd followed in 2024, and it didn’t take long for both to stand out. During the 2024 season they delivered standout campaigns, finishing first and second in the club’s Best and Fairest count, as well as representing Team GB at the Transatlantic Cup in Canada.

Despite their relatively short time in the sport, both made the bold decision to test themselves in Australia. Massie spent a season in Queensland playing QAFLW football, where she impressed by finishing fourth in her club’s Best and Fairest. Hibberd signed with Essendon’s VFLW side for the 2025 season, but her progress was stalled by a stress fracture that ruled her out for much of the year.

Still determined to reach the next level, both secured new opportunities ahead of the 2026 season. Massie signed with Geelong VFLW, while Hibberd joined Darebin in search of greater opportunities in the ruck. Their debuts on 16 May marked a significant milestone for British AFL talent, with Hibberd becoming the first British player to feature in the VFLW, followed shortly after by Massie, who became the first Scottish player to play at the level.

Their journeys highlight just how quickly players can develop through the London system and what is now possible for British athletes willing to back themselves. Off the field, Hibberd is set to return to the UK to complete her medical degree and continue contributing to the growth of the sport, while Massie is planning to spend the off-season in Darwin, making the most of the opportunities football has opened up.

They are not alone in making their mark. Athene McInerny is also contracted to a VFLW club, joining Port Melbourne after success with the West London Wildcats, and is currently working back from a knee injury. Susie Carr and Cherry Halfyard are already competing in Australia with Fitzroy, with Carr making her senior debut earlier this month.

Alongside this current wave, these players are following in the footsteps of Australians who began their journeys in London and went on to the very top level. Lauren Spark (Wimbledon Hawks / Western Bulldogs Premiership player), Kate Shierlaw (Wimbledon Hawks / North Melbourne Premiership player) and Jess Edwards (Wandsworth Demons/Carlton FC) all started in the London system and played a key role in shaping the game locally. More recently, figures such as former Casey Demons VFLW player Mell Hogg have continued that work, helping to further develop and grow the women’s game in the capital.

All of this points to a clear shift, with the connection between the UK and Australian AFL systems strengthening, and the London league establishing itself as a genuine launchpad for players with bigger ambitions.

For anyone in the UK looking to get involved in AFL and follow a similar path, now is the perfect time. The London season is just getting underway, making it an ideal moment to join, develop, and see where the game can take you. If you’re interested in playing, get in touch with us and we can help you find your nearest club and start your journey.