MELBOURNE has selected Lauren Clifton with its No.9 selection at the 2026 AFLW Pre-Season Draft.

Clifton arrives at the Dees as a 22-year-old talent out of South Australia.

She represented SA during her junior career and has been further developing her craft over the last four years, most recently playing for South Adelaide Football Club in the SANFLW, leading the Panthers as co-captain.

Clifton has the potential to play across multiple positions but has spent majority of her football career playing along the wing.

She has been highly rated for her versatility, athleticism and strong aerial ability on field, in addition to her mature character and leadership off field.

She was named Best Finals Player and Trademark Player last season for the Panthers and has had experience playing alongside AFLW talent, training with Adelaide in 2025.

“Lauren took her game to another level in the SANFLW finals series last year. She really stood up in some big games and played a key role in South Adelaide’s premiership success," said Katrina Gill, Melbourne's GM of AFLW. 

"Lauren has a great balance of skill and athleticism that will translate well at AFLW level. She's played most of her footy on the wing, but we think she has the attributes to play at either end of the ground and brings more flexibility to our playing group.

"Lauren is an excellent character and respected leader, and we are excited to welcome her to the Dees."