Poppy Waterford
Poppy Dutton Waterford (born 19 August 1997) is an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Woodville-West Torrens Football Club in the SANFL Women's League (SANFLW). She is co-captain of the club and deputy vice-captain of the SANFLW State Team in 2025. Waterford is known for her consistent midfield performances, leadership, and state-level representation.
Early life and background
Waterford was born on 19 August 1997 in South Australia. She began her SANFLW career with North Adelaide Football Club before joining Woodville-West Torrens Football Club in 2020.
Club career
Waterford finished as runner-up in the club’s Best and Fairest award in both 2023 and 2024.
In 2025, Waterford was named co-captain of the club alongside Annie Falkenberg.
Match performances
Waterford has featured in multiple Team of the Week selections, including in Round 3 of the 2025 season. She was also named among the best players in Round 11 and Round 12 of the 2024 season, including a standout game against Norwood.
State representation
Waterford was selected as deputy vice-captain of the 2025 SANFLW State Team that played against the VFLW in the annual AAMI State Game.
Playing style
Waterford plays as a midfielder, capable of rotating between inside and outside roles. She is noted for her endurance, tackling intensity, and ball-winning ability. In recent seasons, she has averaged around 17 disposals and 9.5 tackles per game.
Discipline
In 2023, Waterford received a one-match suspension after an early guilty plea for forceful front-on contact.
Leadership and consistency
Waterford is considered one of the SANFLW’s most reliable midfielders, having played nearly every match since joining the Eagles. She serves as a mentor for younger players and has been praised for her off-field leadership.
Honours and achievements
- Co-captain – Woodville–West Torrens (2025)
- SANFLW State Team – Deputy Vice-Captain (2025)
- SANFLW Team of the Week (Round 3, 2025)
- Club Best & Fairest Runner-up – 2023, 2024
- Team of the Year vote top-10 finish – 2024