Chelsea Randall and Kellie Gibson were only officially unveiled as Crows on Wednesday, but the history between the talented West Australians goes back a long way.
The pair met eight years ago and have played alongside and also occasionally against one another ever since.
They were teammates at WAWFL club Swan Districts, as well as in numerous state teams and AFL Women’s Exhibition matches. Randall, 25, and Gibson, 20, were also rivals when Gibson was picked on the Western Bulldogs team to play Melbourne, who Randall represented.
Despite a five-year age gap, the duo has much in common – to the point they are known as the ‘twinnies’.
“We’re like exactly the same person, so you’ve got two of us now!” Gibson says with a laugh.
As players, Randall and Gibson are both physical and quick midfielder/forwards.
Away from the football field, they are bubbly personalities with a fierce determination to succeed and grow the women’s game. They also share a sense of adventure and desire to try new things, which saw them both divert down the path of Rugby Sevens at different stages.
“Kellie and I have some very similar aspects, and have followed a similar path,” Randall said.
“We are the ‘twinnies’.
“It’s really exciting to be over here and playing football alongside her. She’s an exceptional footballer and an outstanding person, who has so much to give.”
Gibson much prefers having the competitive Randall as a teammate than an opponent.
“I wouldn’t want to be hit by her that’s for sure – she’s very hard hitting!” Gibson said.
“Not only is Chelsea hard at the footy, but she can run and jump – she can basically do anything you ask her to do. She’s an easy person to get along with and I’m glad she’s here with the Crows.”
Gibson has already made the move to Adelaide and is working as the Female Engagement Coordinator at the SANFL. Randall, who currently works as the East Pilbara Regional Manager at the Swan Districts Football Club, hopes to relocate in September.
Randall said she was pleased to be sharing the journey with her teammate and friend.
“To support each other through the journey will be really helpful for the both of us,” she said.
“Hopefully, we can have a positive impact in South Australia and really promote women’s football.”
