Indigenous AFLW trailblazer Aliesha Newman hangs up the boots

Jarred Cross Published October 29, 2025 at 11.05am (AWST)

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After 10 years and time at four clubs, Newman will play her final AFLW game this weekend. (Image: Biance De Marchi/AAP)

After a career spanning 10 seasons and four clubs, inaugural AFLW player Aliesha Newman has announced her retirement.

Newman, 30, will play her final game in the Giants' round 12 contest with Port Adelaide this weekend.

The Ningy Ningy mid-forward will notch 67 appearances at the top level in her final outing, having debuted with Melbourne in the first season of the women's competition in 2017 and going on to feature in finals campaigns at Collingwood and Sydney before spending the last two seasons with GWS.

While at each of her four clubs, Newman has helped designed Indigenous Round jumpers, as well as the AFLW's Indigenous Round logo in 2021.

Newman announced her retirement to the Giants playing group on Tuesday.

"Football has given me so much more than I could have dreamed of," she said.

"It's given me a sense of belonging, a family away from home and the chance to grow into someone I never thought I could be.

"Through this game, I've found my purpose, I've been able to give back through coaching, mentoring and connecting with the next generation, especially within the Indigenous community.

"Above all else, football has given me teammates, coaches and lifelong friends who have become family."

Newman is a member of the AFL Players Association's Indigenous Advisory Board.

Originally from Queensland, Newman played four games in the AFLW's debut season, and was a senior member of Sydney's squad in the club's maiden advancement to finals in their second season in 2023.

*Newman celebrates a goal pulling at the jumper she designed in Sydney's elimination final win over Gold Coast in 2023. (Image: Dave Hunt/AAP)*

At GWS she is recognised as a key figure contributing to their club culture.

"We congratulate Aliesha on an incredible career and thank her for an outstanding contribution to both our club and the game itself," Giants AFLW executive general manager Alison Zell said.

"'Newy' has been a much-loved character around the GIANTS and leaves a significant legacy here, as much for her work ethic and zeal for the game as her impact on our community away from football.

"The effect she has had on both our playing group and wider AFLW team, through her passion for storytelling and the enthusiasm she brings into every session will be sorely missed.

"The club wishes Aliesha all the best for her future endeavours and thank for her lasting impact on the game."

GWS host Port at Henson Park on Saturday afternoon.