MELBOURNE has named its side to open its 2026 NAB AFLW Season.
The Dees will face the Hawks in their Round 1 clash tomorrow night, set to take place at IKON Park from 7:15pm.
BECOME A DEMON >>> Get your AFLW membership nowÂ
It was confirmed yesterday that the Dees would unveil four new talents to the red and blue, with Jacinta Hose, Jordyn Allen and Lauren Clifton named for their first AFLW games, while trade acquisition Mia Austin will play her first in Melbourne colours.
Olivia Purcell will return for her first official match since injuring her ACL in Round 2 last season. The powerful Demon will add to an already stacked midfield, joining the likes of Tyla Hanks, Shelley Heath and Kate Hore through the centre.
The forward line will be led by experienced stars Tayla Harris and Alyssa Bannan, the latter set to run out for her 75th AFLW match.
Off the back of representing Australia two weeks ago, Tahlia Gillard will head up the Dees backline, the 22-year-old preparing to celebrate her 50th AFLW game.
Laela Ebert, Amelia Dethridge and Alyssia Pisano have been named on the Thursday night emergency list.
Check out the full Round 1 team below.
