Chelsea Gillard is a key position forward who booted five goals in seven games for Maroochydore this season, continuing her trajectory from junior to senior player. Originally from Strathmore where she dominated at Under 16s level in 2021, Gillard was meant to play for Calder Cannons, and then after moving to Queensland, Brisbane Lions Academy, but injury struck and the 178cm talent was unable to do so.

Suitably flying under the radar, Gillard is a contested marking player with great presence and a player who competes well one-on-one. Boasting strong hands to go with a penetrating kick, she plays a traditional forward role but can push further up the ground and even play in defence if required. She averaged the 7.4 disposals, 1.7 marks and 0.7 goals per game in the 2023 QAFL Women's season, but her traits are more influential than her stats may suggest.

At her best, she is a 15-disposal, two-goal player as she showed earlier in the year. Gillard has not quite been able to find that consistency due to her injury setbacks, but still projects as a potential long-term forward option. Given her strong traits and potential to develop, she is a name that will still be in the back of some AFLW club minds.

STRENGTHS:

- Contested marking
- Strength
- Presence
- Penetrating kick
- One-on-ones

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Raw
- Consistency
- Limited exposure

Picture credit: Jillo's Sporting Pics