Jesse Tawhiao Wardlaw is a dynamic key forward and ruck whose journey from netballer to premiership‑winning AFLW footballer has made her one of the most compelling athletes in women’s sport. Born in Ashburton, New Zealand and of Māori heritage, she moved to Brisbane with her family at age four and began cross‑coding into Australian rules after making a mark in netball. A self‑described “Kiwi‑turned‑Aussie,” she embraces her cultural roots and lives by a motto of leaving fear behind.
She debuted with the Brisbane Lions in 2019, quickly earning a Rising Star nomination and Best First‑Year Player honours. Her strong marking, long kicking and versatility across forward and ruck roles helped the Lions win the 2021 AFLW premiership, and she captured the AFLW Leading Goalkicker Award in the 2022 Season 7 after booting 19 goals. Following an off‑season move to St Kilda in 2023, she became the focal point of the Saints’ forward line, finishing runner‑up in the 2024 Best & Fairest and winning both the club’s Leading Goalkicker and fan‑voted Sainter of the Year awards. Her ability to influence games through contested marking and ruck craft, combined with a fearless attitude and infectious energy, has made her a fan favourite.
Off the field, Jesse is passionate about cultural representation, sustainability and community connection. She plays the drums, embraces challenges and values organisations that align with her Māori roots, her love of animals (especially dogs) and her commitment to diversity and environmental stewardship. Her authenticity and openness make her a relatable role model, and she is well-suited to speaking engagements, ambassador roles and commercial partnerships that share her values.
