Peel Captain Keen To Kick On in 2024Wednesday, May 24, 2023 - 12:47 PM

FRESH from playing her 150th game, Peel Thunder captain Ebony Dowson has declared she will play next year.  

Despite her milestone match against West Perth resulting in an 11-point defeat, Dowson has fond memories of the day.

“After 150 games you start to realise the impact you can have on others and there are always things to learn no matter how many games you’ve played,” Dowson said.

“I also think it's important to really embrace every moment and really absorb it as things can fly by so fast.”

Her path to football is a familiar one.

“I originally played netball in Kalgoorlie as a kid as football was not something girls could do,” she said.

“When I came to Perth to study, I saw a flyer around Mandurah seeking girls who wanted to play football, so I got in contact with the club, went to a training session and never looked back.

“I started playing for Peel in 2013 and I have really enjoyed my time at the club.

“Although every year was not as successful as one would hope I’ve always relished the moments along the way.

“It’s the love of the game and the people that keep you coming back year after year.”.

Team success stands above all other achievements.

“Winning back-to-back premierships in 2020 and 2021 would be a huge memory I will cherish,” she said.

“Taking out the Fenton Medal in 2022 as Peel’s Best and Fairest and being drafted by the Fremantle Dockers in 2018 are also proud achievements.”

Affectionately known as “Chippy”, Dowson is a much-loved figure at Peel.

“Chippy comes from my second AFLW game where I took a shoulder to the jaw and chipped five teeth, so my advice is always invest in a good mouth guard!”

The 33-year-old’s journey has been accompanied by great support on and off the field.

“Every single person who has been involved in the woman’s program at Peel has had some impact in my career,” she said.

“My family, partner and friends have always supported me throughout my time playing football and I appreciate everything they have done.”

Peel plays South Fremantle in Round 12 WAFLW action at Fremantle Community Bank Oval on Sunday at midday.

The match can be seen live on Streamer.com.au.

Photo - Shazza J Photography