\n Kerryn Peterson has been told by Carlton that she will not be offered a contract for 2026\n <\/p>\n
Kerryn Peterson looks on during Carlton’s official team photo day on August 10, 2023. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
CARLTON has told former AFLW captain and much-loved veteran Kerryn Peterson it will not be offering her a contract for 2026, just months after she gave birth to her first child.<\/p>\n
Peterson was placed on the inactive list for this season after welcoming her newborn son, Max, in August.<\/p>\n
She had initially planned to return to the Blues next season, but was recently told she would not be offered a new deal.<\/p>\n
The 33-year-old is still weighing up whether she will continue her playing career elsewhere next season, while rival clubs have also eyed the well-respected veteran for potential football department roles as well.<\/p>\n
“As a lifelong supporter of the club, it’s been a privilege to pull on the navy blue jumper and lead the team on and off the field,” Peterson said.<\/p>\n
“I’ll forever be indebted to my teammates, coaches and high performance staff and fans for their support over the journey.”<\/p>\n
Peterson, a three-time All-Australian, spent seven seasons as Carlton’s AFLW captain but relinquished the position to Abbie McKay this year after announcing that she was expecting her first child in February.<\/p>\n
Kerryn Peterson (centre) embraces teammates Jess Dal Pos (left) and Darcy Vescio during week 10, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
Coach Mathew Buck said Peterson will have a lasting impact on the club and the wider league.<\/p>\n
“She has been a central figure at Carlton ever since she stepped through the door. She has always led with such passion and enthusiasm; her care for the monogram and her relentless approach to seeing not just her teammates but our entire club to continue to get better is a key part of the legacy she will leave,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Her legacy and her Carlton connection will always remain and her impact is a key reason why the next wave of leaders we have coming through are in a great position to take our football club forward.”<\/p>\n