In a new series, we take a look at the hidden games of the AFL Women’s competition. These are the players who aren’t the household names, might not get noticed by opposition fans and teams but are still stars in their own right.

In the series opener, today we take a look at Melbourne’s Jacqueline Parry.

Jacqueline Parry

Geelong

League/s: AFLW, Vflw

Season/s: 2020, 2021, 2022, S7, 2023, 2024

• Games [tot]: 52

• Goals [tot]: 32

• Disposals [avg]: 9.9

• Marks [avg]: 2.9

• Tackles [avg]: 2.2

• Cont. Poss: 4.5

• Uncont. Poss: 3.9

• Clearances: 0.5

• Inside 50s: 1.3

• Rebound 50s: 0.1

Drafted in 2019, Parry is a forward who joined an exclusive club in her debut game. In that game against Collingwood at Docklands in round four 2020, she kicked a goal with her very first kick.

She has gone on to become a crucial element in Melbourne’s forward line. She had her breakout game in 2021, where she kicked three goals in a half as the Dees impressively beat the Roos.

Not one to get high numbers on the stats sheet, she is one where the stats do not tell the full story.

With Tegan Cunningham, Alyssa Bannan and other tall forwards around her, she’s been able to quietly go about her business.

Her leading and marking ability are second to none, and provides a valuable linking option for the Dees as they head into the forward line.

Parry is one who could well have a breakout season in 2022, and is one of the most underrated Demons on the list..

She continued to improve in 2021, but could go even further in 2022. Cunningham has retired, and Tayla Harris and Bannan will the main focus of opposition defenders in 2022. With this, Parry could finally come out of her shell and become a dangerous target in that Dees forward line.  

Melbourne will look to finally take that next step in 2022 and make it to the Grand Final, and Parry could just be the player to make that happen. Watch this space.