PREMIERSHIP defender Maeve Chaplin has secured her future at Melbourne, signing a one-year contract extension that will see her remain in the red and blue until at least the end of 2028.

Already contracted till the end of 2027, Chaplin further solidified her standing as one of the Demons key leaders.

The 23-year-old has gathered an impressive portfolio over the course of her four-year career, earning the honours of an All-Australian blazer in 2025, Melbourne’s Coaches award in 2024, and third place in Melbourne’s best and fairest, also in 2024.

Melbourne’s General Manager of AFLW Katrina Gill praised how valuable Chaplin was to the program both on and off the field.

"Maeve is a great story. From being overlooked in the draft, to earning All Australian selection and being recognised by her peers as a leader this season," Gill said.

"Maeve has had to adapt and work hard to get where she is, but she has always been true to herself, and that's what we love about her.

"Maeve has put in another strong pre-season and will be an integral part of our success this year and beyond."

Chaplin's influence extends well beyond her on-field performances, with the defender voted into Melbourne's leadership group ahead of the 2026 season, reflecting her continued growth as a leader.

Chaplin was also selected to represent Australia in the inaugural Australia v Ireland AFLW representative match, the first AFLW representative fixture since 2017. The selection further highlighted her standing within the competition.

After missing out in two AFLW drafts, Chaplin earned her opportunity with the Demons as an injury replacement in 2022 before later being selected with Pick No. 44 in the 2022 NAB AFLW Draft.