MIDFIELDER Sammie Johnson will sit out the remainder of the 2022 AFL Women’s season after announcing she is expecting her first child.
The Demon draftee shared the exciting news with the playing group earlier this month, before announcing publicly on Friday evening.
Johnson is set to welcome the new addition with her partner Harley in April.
Melbourne’s GM of AFLW Marcus Wagner congratulated the 30-year-old on the impending arrival.
“We’re absolutely thrilled for Sammie and her partner Harley, who will welcome a little bundle of joy early next year,” he said.
“This is obviously a really exciting time for Sammie and her family, and she has our full support as she embarks on a new chapter.
“The playing group couldn’t be more excited to welcome a junior recruit in a few months’ time.”
Johnson joined Melbourne through the 2022 NAB AFL Women’s Draft after a stellar campaign with the Casey Demons.
She made her club debut in Round 1 and went onto play a further two games for the season.