Carlton’s AFL Women’s team is in a healthy state ahead of its first pre-season, according to priority pick Lauren Arnell. 

As one of eight teams to compete in the inaugural 2017 AFLW competition, Arnell is confident Carlton has built the foundations for a successful team on and off the field.  

“Our club has spent a huge amount of time on recruitment and the type of person we also want,” Arnell told RSN 927 on Friday morning. 

“We’ve got a little bit of raw height, we’ve got some outside pace, we’ve got some key position players who will really do well. Most importantly we’ve got some excellent people who I know will stand up on and off field. 

“We’re certainly very happy and excited with the group we’ve got at Carlton.” 

The Club’s AFLW team will be bolstered by the assistance of experienced Carlton player Dennis Armfield. 

Having recently been appointed the specialist skills coach of the women’s team, Armfield will work alongside four assistant coaches as well as senior coach Damien Keeping on a part-time basis.

Arnell said the 29-year-old was “already having a positive influence on the (playing) group”.  

“It’s been really important to have an experienced AFL player who is really level-headed, shows a genuine care and also has the knowledge to impart the skills coaching,” she said. 

“There’s just a really good feel around the Club and Dennis is a really big part of that.”

Following yesterday’s launch of the AFLW playing apparel, Carlton’s squad is now fully equipped to begin pre-season on 23 November. 

“It’s very exciting and awesome to be aligned with Cotton On Group and have our apparel all ready to go for the new season,” Arnell said.  

“We’re just another step closer to that Round 1 game.”