STAR Demon Mel Hickey will miss the rest of the 2018 AFLW season, after scans revealed on Monday morning that she had injured her anterior cruciate ligament during Melbourne’s 35-point win over Carlton in round six.

AFLW football operations manager Kimberley Morton said Hickey would miss her first AFLW game, after she managed all seven matches in 2017 and played the first six rounds this year.  

“Unfortunately, scans have confirmed this morning that Mel has torn her anterior cruciate ligament, which she injured during the third quarter of our game against Carlton at Ikon Park on Sunday,” she told melbournefc.com.au.

“Although it is extremely disappointing for Mel, as she is a much-loved figure around our club, she will still play an important role in the lead-up to our final home and away round against the Western Bulldogs at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday night, and our quest to play in this year’s AFLW Grand Final.

“Mel will be given all the support she needs, as she starts her recovery for 2019. We know she will come back bigger and better from this setback next year.”

Although shattered by her news, Hickey typically had the team at the forefront of her mind.

“I am keen to do whatever I can to support the girls this week and the weekend leading into an important game for our club,” she said.

“I have so much love and belief for our group of girls and will play any part I can to help.

“The support I’ve received from the players, coaches and staff – and the fans – has been overwhelming and I can’t thank them enough for that.”

Hickey, who was All-Australian in the inaugural AFLW season in 2017, was a marquee signing for the club, along with Daisy Pearce, when the competition was formed.

An outstanding person, who leads by example, the Melbourne vice-captain also represented Victoria in State of Origin last year.

She is a six-time VFLW premiership player.