“It’s really exciting to reach this milestone”: Keryk to celebrate 50th game

Port Adelaide recruit Maddy Keryk will notch her 50th AFLW game this Saturday against the Swans.

Port Adelaide’s Maddy Keryk has been named in the starting 21 for this Saturday’s game against Sydney, marking her 50th NAB AFLW career game. 

The 28-year-old joined Port Adelaide in a trade from Geelong earlier this year, with 47 games to her name between the Cats and Carlton, prior to the 2023 season. 

She was part of the first ever AFLW game between Carlton and Collingwood at IKON Park, alongside her now senior coach, Lauren Arnell. 

This weekend will be Keryk’s third game since landing at Alberton, after she made her club debut in Round 4 against her most recent former club. 

A composed and versatile character, the defender was moved into the forward line against West Coast in Round 5 and scored her first career goal. 

A physiotherapist outside of football, Keryk is grateful for the opportunities that sport has presented to her. 

“I’m really looking forward to my 50th game and it’s been a bit of a journey to get here over the last eight seasons so it’s really exciting to reach this milestone,” Keryk said. 

“I’ve absolutely loved (coming to Port Adelaide). Everyone here has really embraced me since I came across the border, so it’s made it really easy to transition in and (I’ve) made lots of new friends which has been really good.  

“It’s exciting to be part of a new group that obviously is only in our second season now so still building those foundations for the future and it’s exciting to be a part of that and help build that.” 

Keryk is looking forward to her second experience in front of the Alberton crowd, following her first game in Power colours at home two weeks ago. 

“It’s awesome when the crowd gets up and about, they really support us and help us get that extra motivation,” she said. 

“We’re really hoping to see a big crowd in this weekend when we play the Swans.” 

This Saturday’s game starts at 4:35pm and will be followed by a whole-team signing session, a DJ and a fireworks show.