Adelaide AFLW star Danielle Ponter is set to enhance her impact on the field in 2025, with a focus on improving her fitness as she eyes a hybrid forward-midfield role for the Crows. Known for her skill and versatility, Ponter aims to elevate her game by addressing one key aspect: her aerobic capacity.
The 25-year-old, who hails from the Tiwi and Marranunggu communities, told afc.com.au that building her fitness base is a primary goal for the off-season.
“I’ve been lucky enough to spend some time in the midfield, but aerobic conditioning has always been a challenge for me, and I accept that,” Ponter said. “It’s something I work on during the off-season, but I try to make it enjoyable to keep it from becoming too difficult.”
Ponter, a two-time premiership player, has benefited from the support of her teammates, particularly midfielder Anne Hatchard, who has helped her with conditioning. The pair have participated in cross-training sessions together, fostering a positive and collaborative team environment.
Ponter also made the decision to forgo her usual off-season return to the Northern Territory to play for St Marys in the Northern Territory Football League. Instead, she spent the break traveling to the United States and Fiji, taking the opportunity to recharge both physically and mentally.
“It was a refreshing change,” Ponter reflected. “During the trip, I still kept up with my fitness—running with my partner and going to the gym as much as possible. Running around new cities was a great way to stay active while exploring.”
The Crows’ all-time leading goal kicker, Ponter had a solid 2024 season, capped by a career-high five goals against Hawthorn. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, she is focused on regaining the form that earned her a spot in the AFLW All-Australian team in 2023.
This week, Ponter returned to training with her teammates, starting with optional sessions ahead of the official pre-season in May. She expressed optimism for the year ahead, acknowledging the team’s collective determination to bounce back from their disappointing finish to the 2024 season. The Crows ended the year in fourth place, falling to Brisbane in the preliminary final.
“We’ve started our skills and conditioning sessions, and we had our first team meeting on Tuesday,” Ponter said. “Everyone’s disappointed with how last season ended, but we’re using that as motivation for the 2025 season.”
With her focus on fitness and the backing of her teammates, Ponter is poised for a strong 2025 campaign as she continues to evolve into one of the most formidable players in the competition.
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