Her breakout 2024 WAFLW season with Swan Districts saw her become one of the competition’s most dynamic ball-winners, showcasing clean hands, strong two-way running, and a fierce work rate that quickly caught national attention.
Port Adelaide selected Paterson with Pick 19 in the 2024 AFLW Draft, marking a bold investment in her potential. She made her AFLW debut in Round 2, 2025, where she continued to show the traits that defined her state-league success—composure under pressure, competitiveness at the contest, and an ability to accumulate the ball.
After a promising debut season, Paterson requested a return home to Western Australia. She now plays for the West Coast Eagles, where her determination, footballing ability and rapid improvement position her as a key part of the club’s future midfield group.
Still early in her AFLW journey, Paterson’s rise from state-league standout to top draft pick and national-level contributor within a year highlights her exceptional upside and marks her as a player to watch in seasons to come.