Bess Keaney rejoins the Essendon primary list after pregnancy hiatus

Essendon leader Bess Keaney has returned to the club's primary list following a pregnancy-related absence. Keaney sat out the 2025 season and remained on the inactive list for 2026 before receiving medical clearance to rejoin the squad. AFL Collective Bargaining Agreement rules allow players to return from pregnancy leave at any point during the season, provided they are assessed as fit by a club or league medical officer. While Keaney was away, Essendon signed replacement players who will now complete their one-season contracts, allowing the team to maintain a 31-player squad for the remainder of the year. The midfielder recently appeared in two VFLW games, including a match where she recorded 22 disposals and five marks. This mid-season return follows the precedents set by Emily Goodsir and Sammie Johnson, who also utilized the league's flexible return-to-play policy.

• 5:38 AMAFL — Inactive Bomber rejoins primary list after pregnancy hiatus