Emily Eaves backed up a promising debut VFLW season with an even stronger second season at the Seagulls, earning Team of the Year honours in defence and featuring prominently in the league best and fairest. A natural contested ball-winner, Eaves adapted to the style well with the extra off-season and became a crucial member of Williamstown's team. With her clearance and tackle numbers leaping off the page, she showed she could fill an immediate role at AFLW level.

The former Swans Academy member is still working on her kicking consistency and is not as explosive as some other inside midfielders, but her consistency and continuity in 2023 will hold her in good stead. Her groundballs in particular went to another level in the VFLW, with more than eight per game, showing off her clean hands and ability to pick it off the deck consistently. Adding to that, the fact she spent time in defence also added another element to her bow having previously played forward.

Given her consistency over the last 18 months and her ability to go to another level in 2023 Eaves remains among the top VFLW players available in this year's draft. Expect Eaves to be a player who comes into club considerations

STRENGTHS:

- Clean hands
- Clearances
- Contested work
- Strength
- Consistency
- Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Explosiveness
- Kicking consistency