Jade Ellenger

Ellenger was born in South East London in England.^[2] Her parents migrated to Australia when she was 4 settling in Brisbane, Queensland at Redland City.^[2] She attended Victoria Point High School playing basketball and athletics.^[2] Between the ages of 14 and 18 she excelled in basketball deciding to focus on that sport where she made the state championships with Logan City.^[3] She took up Australian rules at the age of 15 when her teacher offered her the day off school to play in a local AFL competition, after her first game she developed a passion for the sport, deciding to switch from basketball to football.^[2]

Ellenger played for Coorparoo in the AFL Queensland Women's League (QWAFL).^[4] She played 14 matches during the 2018 season, including the Grand Final, which they lost to Wilston Grange.^[5][6] She represented Queensland in the 2018 AFL Women's Under 18 Championships,^[7] playing every game and being named amongst the best in their loss to Vic Country and in their victory over Eastern Allies.^[5][8] Also after being drafted to the AFLW, Ellenger continued playing with Coorparoo in the off-seasons. She helped them win the 2019 premiership, beating Bond University,^[9] and was named in the Team of the Year.^[10]

Ellenger was recruited by Brisbane as a post-draft rookie compensation selection in 2018, after Brisbane lost many players to expansion clubs Geelong and North Melbourne.^[5][11] She made her AFLW debut in Brisbane's round 6 game against Carlton at Princes Park on 10 March 2019, kicking two goals.^[12] In April 2019, Ellenger re-signed with Brisbane for the 2020 season.^[13]

Ellenger can play as a defender, a half-back, or a midfielder. Despite her smaller size, her playing style is similar to Kate Lutkins.^[5]

Ellenger has studied paramedic science^[4] and as of September 2024 is completing a Master of Nursing.^[14]

Ellenger is currently in a long distance relationship with Sydney co-captain Chloe Molloy.^[14]