Irish recruit Grace Kos will make her AFLW debut in the GIANTS’ historic season opener against the Bombers in Canberra on Saturday.
A natural athlete with a diverse sporting background, Kos is the latest Irish talent to make the leap from Gaelic football to the AFLW, with the 2025 season marking the beginning of her journey in orange and charcoal.
Having picked up the game rapidly since arriving in Australia, and impressing in the club’s pre-season matches, Kos’ hard work and talent has been rewarded with an AFLW debut as the GIANTS take on the Bombers at Corroboree Group Oval, Manuka in Canberra on Saturday.
Told of her upcoming AFLW debut at training on Thursday, the special news caps off a whirlwind few months for Kos since crossing codes and continents, having only taken up Australian rules football earlier this year after signing with the GIANTS out of Dublin.
Making the move from Ireland to Sydney earlier this year, Kos arrived at the GIANTS with an impressive athletic resume, having played junior hockey and been an All-Ireland cross-country runner prior to her Gaelic career.
Possessing a strong athletic profile, Kos’ blend of speed, endurance, and a high work rate have the GIANTS excited about her potential to adapt quickly and successfully to Australian rules football.
Kos becomes the second GIANT in as many years to make the transition from Gaelic football to AFLW following the incredible debut season of fellow Irishwoman Eilish O’Dowd last year.
GIANTS AFLW head coach Cam Bernasconi said Kos’ upcoming debut was a testament to her rapid development and relentless work ethic.
“We’re incredibly proud of Grace and how far she’s come in such a short amount of time,” Bernasconi said.
“She’s taken every challenge in her stride — learning a new sport, adjusting to a new country, and throwing herself into everything we’ve asked of her. Her athleticism is a real asset, but it’s her attitude and willingness to learn that’s really stood out.”
Bernasconi added that fans should be excited to see what the dynamic Irishwoman brings to the field.
“Grace brings something different — she’s quick, she’s aggressive, and she’s already finding ways to impact contests. She’ll only keep getting better, and we’re thrilled her journey starts this weekend.”
Kos becomes the third AFLW debutant to be named for the GIANTS this week, with first-round draft picks Sara Howley and Grace Martin also set to take on the Bombers on Saturday.
Saturday’s clash will not only mark the debut of a number of young GIANTS but also the GIANTS’ 10th season in the AFLW — and the first-ever AFLW meeting between the GIANTS and Essendon.
