What a way to start an AFLW career as Knoll slots goal with first kick

What a Way to Start an AFLW Career as Knoll Slots Goal with First Kick

After a lengthy injury battle, Shelby Knoll made her AFLW debut with Richmond, showcasing persistence and talent.

Knoll, who played for Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine, made an immediate impact at 25 years old by kicking a goal with her very first kick during Richmond’s game against the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday.

She earned a free kick for holding the ball in the forward pocket, and from a difficult boundary position, Knoll executed a precise set shot to score Richmond’s opening goal.

Journey to AFLW Debut

Knoll joined Richmond in April 2023 via the AFLW supplementary draft.
In December 2023, she suffered an ACL injury.
After nearly two years of rehabilitation, Knoll earned her call-up for Richmond’s final game of the season.

Game Outcome and Early Career

Despite Knoll’s early goal, Richmond finished the season with a 14-point loss to the Suns at IKON Park, with the final score 5.9 (39) to 3.7 (25).

Knoll began playing football in 2014 with the youth girls team at Kangaroo Flat, later joining their senior women’s side. She then moved to Castlemaine when the Magpies joined the Central Victorian Football League women's competition in 2022.

"PERSISTENCE has paid off for former Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine footballer Shelby Knoll after playing her long-awaited first game of AFLW for Richmond on Saturday."

Author's summary: Shelby Knoll’s dedication through injury culminated in a memorable AFLW debut, marked by a goal with her first kick for Richmond despite the team’s season-ending loss.

Bendigo Advertiser — 2025-11-02