From the Crows to the Hawks, A Journey Fueled by Passion and Heritage

After one of her early games in the AFLW for the Adelaide Crows back in 2020, Najwa Allen received a heartfelt message from her mother, Fadwa Al-Yaman, seeking to understand the significance of certain terms in football, such as "disposal." Growing up in a soccer-focused environment, Allen discovered Australian Rules Football later in her 20s, while her mother, a Palestinian who once avoided physical education, now dedicates herself to Indigenous health and welfare.

Allen admires her mother’s tenacity and commitment. "She's incredibly driven," Allen noted, pointing out her mother's impressive academic achievements, from studying in Jordan to earning a PhD at ANU. This same determination is mirrored in Allen's approach to her career, as she believes success in football requires extra effort beyond just game day.

Both women share a profound connection to their Palestinian roots, and the troubling events in Gaza weigh heavily on their hearts. Allen expressed her deep emotional ties, saying that these issues draw her closer to her identity. Conversations with her mother reflect their shared sorrow, particularly as they face the long-standing impacts of displacement. For Allen's mother, Fadwa, her professional dedication to Indigenous issues stems from parallels to her experiences of land loss.

As Allen's career progressed, she faced challenges, especially after an injury-plagued 2024 season with the Crows. With uncertainty surrounding her role in the team, she understood the organization's consideration for younger players. Realizing the situation didn’t make it any easier emotionally, she began exploring options with other clubs, ultimately signing with Hawthorn, which offered her the chance to bring her experience to a youthful team eager for guidance.

The competitive fires burn brightly within Allen, motivating her to seek environments where her passion is matched by that of her coaches. Her discussions with Hawthorn's coach, Daniel Webster, highlighted his deep care for the team’s development, resonating with her desire for more than just coaching tactics.

Having left a well-established club like the Crows, Allen is keenly aware of the pressure associated with the Hawks' previous season, where they reached the finals but faced disappointing early exits. She empathizes with her new teammates, particularly Emily Bates and Eliza West, both of whom share her experience of having transitioned from successful clubs.

As Hawthorn approaches its first home game of the season against Carlton, buoyed by a win against Brisbane, Allen feels a sense of renewed purpose and excitement. She believes that integrating her championship experience with the fresh energy of her new team could create something special as they embark on their journey together in the AFLW.