Geelong defender Georgie Rankin will miss the entire AFLW season after an elbow to the neck at training sparked a medical emergency.

The 28-year-old was sent to hospital by the club doctor and later diagnosed with a carotid artery dissection — a small tear to part of the arterial wall.

She will now be forced to sit out to make a complete recovery.

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“It’s incredibly disappointing that Georgie will miss the season,” Cats general manager Dr Dom Condo said.

“Our priority is Georgie’s health and wellbeing, and as a club we are committed to supporting her throughout her recovery and ensuring she returns to full health.

“I want to acknowledge the work of our medical team, whose thorough assessment ensured Georgie received prompt and specialist care.”

Rankin debuted for the Cats when they entered the competition in the 2019 season.

“While Georgie won’t take to the field this season, she’ll remain an important part of our program and will stay connected to the group as she continues her recovery,” Condo said.

Geelong will play a pre-season game against Brisbane on Saturday ahead of Round 1 early next month.