As reliable as they come, Kiara Hillier is one of those players you know what to expect from each week. Often playing on the last line in defence for her state - or up forward at times for Maroochydore - Hillier is a natural long kick who competes well one-on-one.

Though she is not a known marking presence - taking just two marks in five games across representative duties with the Lions or Maroons at Under 17 and Under 18 state carnivals - she is a known rebounder, and quite often tasked with kicking out from full-back. Her ability to clear the danger zone and go long down the ground helps her team exit the back 50 regularly, and she can hit targets across multiple distances.

Her versatility - which sees her impacting up forward as well as in defence certainly helps, and she applies enough defensive pressure, especially for a taller player. Standing at 173cm, Hillier can match up on key position players, but also does well enough on smaller players. She does need to improve her ground ball skills, which was an ongoing focus for her.

At the AFLW Under 18 Championships, Hillier averaged 10.7 disposals and 4.7 rebounds, showing she was more than capable of stepping up against quality opposition. In the Lions Academy match against Western Jets, she picked up the 15 touches and six rebounds in a real tough slog at The Hangar.

Hillier has been a rising star for Maroochydore this season - winning a nomination in Round 2 after 22 disposals, six tackles and a goal - and her form translated through to nationals. As one of the few dual position talls from the Sunshine State, she offers something different to her peers.