Aine Tighe's heartbreaking run of knee injuries has continued, with the star Fremantle forward ruled out for the entire 2026 AFLW campaign in a huge blow to the Dockers' finals hopes.
Tighe's recent struggles began in September 2024, when she tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her right knee. She had already torn the ACL twice in her left knee earlier in her career, making this her third major knee reconstruction.
The 33-year-old made an emotional return from her third knee reconstruction in Round 9 last season, kicking a goal in a tight win over Melbourne. However, she was ruled out of the final quarter of that match after experiencing pain in her recently reconstructed knee. The injury has continued to plague her in the six months since.
Dockers move Tighe to inactive list
Fremantle announced on Wednesday they will be placing Tighe on the club's inactive list for the entire 2026 campaign. The Irish star will instead help out on the coaching front while continuing her rehabilitation.
Tighe is contracted for 2027, but it remains to be seen whether the Dockers can find a permanent fix to her ongoing knee issues.
"Aine has been incredibly diligent in her rehab, but given the complexities surrounding her knee injury, this decision gives her the best opportunity to prioritise her long-term health," Fremantle's general manager of women's football, Claire Heffernan, said in a statement.
"While she won't be stepping on field in 2026, it's very important to both Aine and the program that she stays connected to the playing group. Aine is a natural leader who is deeply respected by her teammates and staff members."
Impact on Fremantle's finals hopes
Fremantle posted a 6-6 record last season to narrowly miss a finals berth on percentage. Tighe's loss is a huge blow to the club's hopes of clawing their way into the finals for next season.
The 185cm forward has kicked 29 goals and 16 behinds from her 34 games, including twice kicking bags of four goals. Her ability to take big contested marks in attack has proved crucial for the Dockers.
With Tighe sidelined, Fremantle will need to find alternative options in attack as they aim to improve on last season's performance and secure a finals spot in 2026.
