The only player likely to push Young for the top spot, Shineah Goody has had a remarkable past 18 months. After bursting onto the scene in 2021 as a young gun for the Eagles, Goody took that next step in her development last season and won the AFLW Under 18 Championships MVP in a star-studded South Australian team. Though she largely plays wing for the Eagles at SANFL level, she goes inside for the Croweaters, and has played in defence and attack before, making her the ultimate small utility.

Standing at just 162cm, Goody is not tall, but she packs a punch, with her tackling pressure, incredible aerial ability and work rate standing out. She was best-on against Western Australia in the opening match of the 2023 national carnival, and averaged 16.9 disposals, 4.1 marks, 1.9 clearances, 4.0 inside 50s and 5.0 tackles per game at SANFLW level. At the national carnival, Goody averaged 24.3 disposals, 4.3 marks, 3.3 tackles, 5.7 clearances and 3.0 inside 50s.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #2

DRAFT LOOK:

Like Young, Goody is a member of the Port NGA and has trained with the club. Expect the Power to use the other pre-draft listing spot on the Eagles’ gun.

STATE RANKING: #2

Entering the year as a promising prospect off a pretty solid bottom-age season, Piper Window blew up the stats sheet in the first two months of the SANFLW season, where she was close to the most damaging player going around. Window not only can get it done in midfield, but can go forward, clunk a contested mark and hit the scoreboard.

Captain of the South Australian team at this year’s national championships, Window has that leadership to add to her footballing ability. The one major improvement coming into the year was her kicking, and Window has made inroads into that area of her game, and while it still needs work, the rest of her overall profile is, at a minimum, well above average. The Glenelg top-ager is so tough to stop, and averaged 20.3 disposals, 3.1 marks, 6.1 clearances, 4.0 inside 50s and 7.9 tackles while booting four goals. She was not as influential in the last month of the SANFLW season, but still found a way to impact at the coalface.

To conclude the national carnival, Window averaged 17.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 6.0 tackles, 3.7 clearances and 3.7 inside 50s, leading her state to the title in undefeated fashion.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #3

DRAFT LOOK:

The SANFLW best and fairest winner could end up the first ‘live’ pick in the draft, and considering her CV in 2023, it would hard to deny she is up there with the best. If a state-based draft she will likely head to Port, but in a first round national-based draft then it opens up the possibilities. The fact she is a Crows-linked NGA player is likely to get Adelaide proactive in securing her.

STATE RANKING: #3

The first Victorian player to make the list is Eastern Ranges talent Laura Stone. Having cut her teeth as a rebounding defender last season, Stone gained valuable midfield minutes in the back half of 2022, and has taken her game to another level in 2023. With explosive speed to use out of the stoppage and clean skills, Stone is a well-balanced player who could be utilised in a number of positions and do them well.

Stone has been one of the most consistent players in this year’s Coates Talent League and is often the second possession winner at stoppages to burst away and clear the ball down the ground. Though not necessarily an inside midfielder, Stone has become used to being close to the action this year, and cemented herself as one of the top Victorian prospects, taking the next step in her football journey.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #5

DRAFT LOOK:

Like Port Adelaide, Hawthorn has pre-listing options to use, and Eastern Ranges are the club in the Hawks’ zone. Stone won Vic Metro’s Best and Fairest, and her finish to the season has seen her move to fourth, and likely the first choice for the brown and gold. Otherwise, she’s among the top three Victorian prospects.

STATE RANKING: #1

Breaking up the South Australian dominance at the top of the Power Rankings is the silky Pisano, who had it not been for an ACL injury last year, would have had a big Under 18 Championships. Luckily the Eastern Ranges star recovered well and has been back kicking goals, always looking dangerous whenever she goes near it. With hauls of four and six goals early this season, Pisano is fighting to be considered the top Victorian talent.

Boasting a deadly left foot and a penchant for making the most of her opportunities, the top-age young gun has booted a goal in each of her 11 games and taken her goal tally up to 29 for the season. Considering she has played 22 games over three seasons – and only five last year due to her ACL injury – Pisano has still managed to boot 58 goals, including 19 as a double bottom-ager. In 2023. Pisano is averaging 11.3 disposals, 2.5 marks, 2.3 inside 50s and 2.6 tackles in the Coates Talent League.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #4

DRAFT LOOK:

Another star in the Hawks’ zone, Pisano is a specialist small forward who would fit any side, and would be a top three pick in a live Victorian state-based draft. A massive Tigers fan, Richmond seems out of reach, though trade period could change things.

STATE RANKING: #2

The hardest player to rank in the 2023 AFLW Draft crop, Brooke Barwick is unable to take the field this season after tearing her ACL in preseason. The 159cm midfielder was ranked inside the top five coming into the year, so holds her spot for now, though will unfortunately not get the chance to raise her stocks like her peers. Luckily Barwick has done more than enough to take the next step, with her skill and smarts off the charts, as well as her high-level defensive pressure.

At the Devils in 2022, Barwick averaged 6.2 tackles per game to go with 15.6 disposals, and was more than comfortable burying herself under the pack. She is incredibly competitive and would have been a massive addition to a well-balanced Tasmanian unit, but is taking the time to work on other aspects of her game, including taking up a coaching role with the Devils.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #6

DRAFT LOOK:

As a Tasmanian, Barwick could move anywhere, with a club like GWS GIANTS who have backed in Tasmanian talent in recent years, while Gold Coast coach Cam Joyce mentored a then 15-year-old Barwick at the Devils.

STATE RANKING (VIC): #3

After an injury-interrupted preseason due to knee and ankle issues, Molly Brooksby built back into form in the SANFLW season largely playing off half-back and working into the midfield. Even in doing so, she still hit the scoreboard by pushing up the ground and kicking a couple of goals later in the season. In Round 12 and the semi-final of the SANFLW, the Norwood utility had back-to-back best on ground performances, averaging 24.5 disposals and 7.5 rebound 50s in big games.

Brooksby was strong in the first half against Central District as well, picking up 11 of her 14 disposals in that half, while gaining more valuable midfield minutes. An elite kick of the ball, clever and dual-sided, Brooksby can be one of the most reliable players when up and going, as she showed in last year’s Under 17s Futures match where she was one of the better players on the field playing in her preferred on-ball role.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #7

DRAFT LOOK:

Brooksby is another great chance for Port Adelaide, having already been training down at the club. Given the ties through the Academy, she might be looked at as one of the Power’s picks, but other clubs across the nation have also shown interest.

STATE RANKING: #4

Unfortunately for Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner, 2023 did not have the ideal start, going down with injury and only playing the two games. Against Tasmania Devils in Round 3, Weston-Turner caught the eye with 15 disposals, three marks, five tackles, five inside 50s, before not being able to influence as much in the wet against Calder Cannons. But when it comes to the Western Jets tall, clubs are not picking her on the now, but what she could become in the future.

Arguably boasting the highest ceiling of those in the later first round, Weston-Turner is a 178cm forward with explosive speed and just as capable at ground level as she is on the lead. Famously booting a goal from the centre circle at Mars Stadium, Weston-Turner does have a booming kick, and can burn off opponents with ease. Able to do the incredible on her day, she has X-factor in spades and if she can live up to her potential, she will be a very good player in the future.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #8

DRAFT LOOK:

The elite athlete could end up the first Victorian taken in the draft. While rawer than others, her upside is enormous and given the lack of genuine 180cm-plus talls with athleticism, clubs will be very keen to add her attributes to their list.

STATE RANKING: #3

The AFLW Draft bolter this year, Ella Slocombe is a player who has all the traits to be a very good player in the future, and has not had as much experience as others on this list. Playing a role for Claremont last season in the Tigers’ run to the flag, Slocombe missed a bulk of preseason while she was overseas and coach Jack Schwarze admitted she was close to missing out on Round 1. A strong couple of practice matches later, and she slotted in, and has been enjoying an incredible 2023 season.

Slocombe has the explosive burst and work rate that is critical in getting to repeat contests, and has shown she can play forward, as well as inside or on the wing. She moves well through traffic and has been the most consistent of the WAFLW State Academy members at the level. The key was when she represented Western Australia against the All-Stars and then South Australia, and was one of the Black Ducks’ best on both occasions.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #9

DRAFT LOOK:

Slocombe is an interesting one, with less fanfare than others from her state. Though the likelihood is that Cleaver or Srhoj is the first selected West Australian, she remains inside the top 10 for her traits and upside. Expect her to still be among the top few names from the state.

STATE RANKING: #1

Central District midfielder Elaine Grigg has plenty of upside and has come a long way in 2023. Crossing from North Adelaide to the Bulldogs, Grigg recently became a dual premiership player. Boasting elite evasion and speed, as well as high-level defensive pressure, the versatile talent has added some extra strings to her bow to go from being a potential Top 20 prospect to a potential Top 10 talent.

Still not the finished product in terms of what she is capable or producing in the future, Grigg was able to earn more midfield time with the Dogs this year, and play a combination of inside and outside, as well as off a half-forward flank. She had some highs and lows in terms of her performances, but when she was on, she was really able to influence contests. Her defensive pressure – 7.9 tackles – is what stands out each game. She also averaged 15.2 disposals, 1.5 marks, 2.7 clearances and 2.4 inside 50s for the Bulldogs in the 2023 SANFLW season.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #10

DRAFT LOOK:

Another Crows-linked player, Grigg is the fifth AFLW Academy member and adds a point of difference with her speed and defensive pressure. Growing up a Port Adelaide supporter then jumping on the Crows when the AFLW started, she could easily slot into either South Australian club.

STATE RANKING: #5

The standout ruck remaining in the AFLW Draft crop, the national carnival looms as a big one for the talented and athletic Georgie Cleaver. As she saw her peers in Matilda Scholz and Darcie Davies earn spots on AFLW lists, Cleaver remains as the number one ruck in the AFLW Academy. She is not just a pure ruck, and is likely a touch undersized at the top level, which is why she has forged a career as a key forward who can pinch-hit on-ball.

An impressive athlete with a great vertical leap and nice speed for a tall, Cleaver is also forging a netball career having represented Western Australia in that code as well. Hoping to juggle both sports, the East Fremantle tall will draw plenty of interest from AFLW clubs with her ground level work the best of the ruck/forwards in the crop.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #11

DRAFT LOOK:

A huge West Coast fan, Cleaver is hoping to juggle both her football and netball as long as she can. Ideally, getting picked up by West Coast Fever in the Super Netball and landing at the Eagles would be a dream come true. As it stands, West Coast has a pick ahead of Fremantle, but may have to decide between tall (Cleaver) or small (Srhoj).

STATE RANKING: #2

South Adelaide midfielder Brooke Boileau is another draft bolter this season, coming off a remarkable 2023 SANFLW campaign that still has one more match left in it. Last season, the predominant big-bodied forward missed out on a spot in the stacked State Academy, and went back to work on her craft increase her production rate and move into the midfield. After a huge preseason, Boileau came out as a locked in member of the Panthers midfield and has hardly put a foot wrong.

Only missing two games – one due to State Academy duties and the other due to a foot injury – Boileau has averaged 18.0 disposals, 3.1 marks, 4.3 clearances, 7.2 tackles and 2.2 inside 50s and her sole goal was the only one in a low-scoring tussle against the Eagles in Round 7. Consistency is key, and Boileau has not had lower than 16 disposals all year, with 21 being her peak, but her tackling and clearances have also been consistent, and she can work to the outside as well.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #12

DRAFT LOOK:

It will be an interesting call for Boileau who has been training with Port Adelaide as part of the club’s NGA. It might come down to how many players the Power selects, but if Port did not go there, the inside midfielder would have no shortage of suitors out east.

STATE RANKING: #6

Mikayla Williamson is one of those players who has all the pieces to be a very good footballer, and it is a case of just putting it all together. Her explosive speed, evasion and endurance make her a player that can run and run all day long. Starting her career as a half-back and then progressing to a wing, Williamson finds space well and takes off, looking to hit the ground running. After missing Round 1 due to injury, Williamson was a little slow to start the 2023 season, but over the last few rounds – either side of the community break – and particularly after it, the Stingrays talent has found some nice form.

Her kicking efficiency is developing which is the next step, and she is starting to clunk those marks she was dropping early in the season. Since Round 4, she has taking five or six marks in three of her five matches and looking more confident when having to compete aerially. She is not afraid to crack in as well at times, and though she is predominantly an outside player, has the traits to play inside.

Williamson averaged 18.3 disposals, 2.7 marks, 4.0 tackles, 3.0 clearances, 2.7 inside 50s and 1.3 rebound 50s at the AFLW Under 18 Championships.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #13

DRAFT LOOK:

The AFLW Academy member is a player who breathes a fast brand and would attract plenty of interest from clubs home and interstate. Finishing off her year with a pretty solid Talent League finals series, she should be among the top few Victorians taken in the live draft.

STATE RANKING: #4

Peel Thunder midfielder Kaitlyn Srhoj took her game to another level in the Under 17s Futures match last season, earning best afield for her side to announce herself as a top-end AFLW Draft prospect. In 2023, Srhoj has had an injury-interrupted season, copping a concussion early in the year with a clash in Round 1 of the WAFLW, and she took a little while to get back to full fitness. Upon return, she worked her way back to her best, and has built up some form over the past month.

Srhoj had her best game of the season last week in Round 12 against South Fremantle, picking up 20 disposals, six marks and five tackles building on a strong performance from the week before against West Perth. Also solid against South Australia at the AFLW Under 18 Championships, Srhoj’s best is Top 10 quality, it is just about the consistency of maintaining that ability. The top-age young gun has the size and traits to even be the first off the board in the West Australian pool, and realistically is not too far off the top few on her day.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #15

DRAFT LOOK:

Like Cleaver, Srhoj is an Eagles fan and will give West Coast plenty to consider with its first pick. The Peel Thunder midfielder plays well in big games such as the Under 17 Futures match and AFLW Academy game. Able to play just about any role, do not be shocked if she is the first picked from her state.

STATE RANKING: #3

After suffering a broken leg last year, Jessica Rentsch had a delayed start to her preseason and spent more time off half-back than through the middle where she would ideally move to in her top-age year. Now having regained the fitness she has lost since, the GWV Rebels speedster has gradually moved into that midfield role and is getting her hands on the ball more. On the weekend, Rentsch had a season-high 18 touches against Gippsland Power and was among her side’s best yet again.

One of the most agile and explosive players in the draft crop, Rentsch’s game screams upside, and the fact she has retained that speed after overcoming such a serious leg injury is impressive. She still has areas to work on such as the final execution and tempering expectations as she can tend to get caught a bit, but she can equally dish it out with great run-down tackles. In season 2023, Rentsch has averaged 14.7 disposals and 5.3 tackles per game, also lifting her inside 50 average to 3.4 since moving into the midfield.

SEPTEMER RANKING: #17

DRAFT LOOK:

Rentsch has an intriguing story in regards to the club she barracks for at the elite level. She is a GWS GIANTS supporter, but comes from a family of Essendon and Carlton fans. Open minded about moving interstate if the opportunity was there, Rentsch is more likely than unlikely to stay in Victoria and could be around the mark for both those big Victorian clubs.

STATE RANKING: #6

The second Tasmanian player in the Top 20, Georgia Clark is an undersized key forward, but has the traits that make her own the role well. With velcro hands and strong leading patterns, the Devils’ vice-captain is not to be underestimated. She has even rolled into the ruck at times this season despite being just 174cm. Clark has spent time roaming up the ground and getting involved and is not just a pure inside 50 ball-winner.

Early in the season, Clark was on fire with six goals in her first three games, averaging 18 disposals in that period. Since missing a game due to injury and the community break, Clark came back and showed some promising signs, but has been quieter in two of her three games since then. Still, the Tasmanian talent provides a target and at her best is among the top players in the AFLW Draft crop.

SEPTEMER RANKING: #14

DRAFT LOOK:

Another Tasmanian who is happy to move anywhere, she fits the bill of a marking forward, albeit a touch undersized. Given her velcro-like hands, she will be enticed by a number of clubs down the bottom of the ladder who need that target inside 50. Could go higher than her ranking given her role.

STATE RANKING (VIC): #5

Cleo Buttifant is a unique prospect. One of the more athletic talls in the draft pool, she is a dual sport athlete who also plays touch football. It enables the 174cm defender to have outstanding speed that she looks to utilise on every possible occasion. Not afraid to tuck the ball under her arm, Buttifant is one for the future once she is able to develop her craft further in what is ultimately her first season of Aussie rules.

Despite her lack of time in an elite program, Buttifant has smart game sense and gets into the right positions behind the ball to intercept. Though at times her decision making and skill execution are hit and miss, that will come with time and her rare athleticism makes her a unique prospect. Still with limited exposure compared to others, she is one with ability that will attract club interest outside the GIANTS Academy.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #16

DRAFT LOOK:

The AFLW Draft bolter will have no shortage of suitors given her athleticism, and though the GIANTS will look to get her onboard – and have the draft capital to do so – the AFLW Draft world will be Buttifant’s oyster.

STATE RANKING: #1

Sienna McMullen started out as a wing and is more likely to slot into that position at the top level as Queensland’s top prospect for 2023. She has the running capacity and the speed that catches the eye, and though she can often get herself into trouble by taking the game on, it is an appealing aspect to AFLW clubs. McMullen had a very impressive Under 17s Futures match last year, showing she can match it with the best of her peer group.

In 2023, McMullen has had some interruptions, only recently playing her first Suns Academy game in the Talent League yesterday after missing the first couple. She showed those moments of brilliance at times, but is still building that four-quarter consistency. A more pure outside player compared to others in the Top 20, McMullen still applies defensive pressure and is not afraid to get her hands dirty when required as she showed in her bottom-age year for the Suns and Queensland.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #18

DRAFT LOOK:

McMullen’s preference is to stay at home, and the Suns would be more than happy to get the speedster on board, however she will be thrilled that her other supported side in the men’s competition – Collingwood – came away with the flag on the weekend.

STATE RANKING: #1

Sophie Peters is the top pick for the Brisbane Lions Academy this season. She is a member of the AFLW Academy and though not a high production player, is one who can play a multitude of roles and generally use it well. Still a developing talent, Peters has shown she can stand up on the big stage, and is generally a winger who can roll inside and have an influence around the stoppages.

Peters is a player who generally uses the ball well even if she does not find a heap of it. With her inside and outside ability, the Lions Academy midfielder is one who really came to the fore during the AFLW Academy match against the Under 23 All-Stars. Though she could still be a touch cleaner at ground level, she is generally a strong decision maker be it in space or under pressure.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #19

DRAFT LOOK:

One of the easier links, the Maroochydore-based Peters is a Brisbane supporter, has come through the Lions Academy and looks up to a host of Lions players. Expect her to land in Springfield barring a change to the draft format.

STATE RANKING: #2

Keck is a naturally-gifted midfielder/forward who will likely play the latter role at the top level. She has the defensive pressure as well as the natural footy smarts to adapt, and definitely knows where the goals are. In 2022, Keck booted seven goals from 10 games, gradually moving into the midfield in her bottom-age year after showing promising early signs as a 16-year-old in 2021. Her progression into a midfielder who rotates forward in 2023 has shown she can play both roles effectively.

Though Keck has missed a couple of games due to injury of late, she has kept herself busy coaching and developing herself off-field having also been awarded the Bendigo captaincy this year. Her defensive pressure is one of the best in the Top 20 as is her goal sense. Though Bendigo has largely struggled in terms of results, Keck is a player who can influence a game not just individually, but setting up teammates for scoring opportunities.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #20

DRAFT LOOK:

At the start of the year, Keck was determined to remain in Victoria and continue her schooling in her home state, with the North Melbourne supporter looking up to Lily Mithen and Monique Conti. That covers three of the top eight sides, and as a player with terrific upside, she could be anywhere inside that first round.

STATE RANKING: #7

Amy Gaylor is a player who would have been inside the Top 30 long ago, had it not been for a suspected ACL injury. Though that was the believed injury when it happened a few months back, her return caught draft watchers by surprise when she was named for Vic Metro. Fortunately for Gaylor, it proved not to be an ACL, and she has been able to return not just for Metro but Calder Cannons as well.

A standout player through the Cannons midfield at her best, Gaylor is an AFLW Academy member with a nice turn of speed from the contest. Boasting clean hands and a solid left boot, she is naturally an inside midfielder with great strength. Tied to the Bombers through the region, she is one that Bombers fans should keep a close eye on given Essendon can pre-list her if both parties choose to do so.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #21

DRAFT LOOK:

Expect Essendon to pre-select Gaylor as part of the zone link with the Cannons, as the explosive left-footer has some serious upside. Though she has had her injury interruptions this year due to her knee, she will be one who can add a point of difference at AFLW level.

STATE RANKING: #8

Geelong Falcons skipper Chloe Adams is one of those players who ticks a lot of boxes, and is an ultra-consistent performer. Utilised through the midfield, Adams is able to drop back behind the ball, and then also go forward and set up plays there. A naturally defensive player, Adams is someone who will put her body on the line to win a one-on-one both in the air and at ground level, and hardly plays a bad game.

She earned Under 23 All-Stars representation for her form at Talent League level, and is a player who coaches can rely on to get the job done. While teammate Sara Howley may take the plaudits a lot of the time, Adams plays a critical role on both the inside and outside, and makes her team looks better. She is also a dual-sided athlete who makes good decisions with ball-in-hand.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #22

DRAFT LOOK:

Could the Cats look to go local with their first selection? There are few better leaders than Adams, and as it stands Geelong has pick seven in the Victorian pool, and 13th overall. She’s the leading Falcons hope in the AFLW Draft.

STATE RANKING: #9

Evie Long is somewhat of a draft bolter who has been getting better and better of late. Unfortunately the top-age talent has had a history with concussion issues which has kept her from really showing her full potential. But for Queensland at the national carnival. Long showed all the traits she has to offer, largely playing as a forward, but can play higher up the ground as well as deeper to be a distributor and a marking target inside 50.

The Brisbane Lions Academy member only played the one Talent League Girls game where she won 14 disposals and laid 11 tackles, while having six inside 50s. Standing at 175cm, Long is a good size, and most importantly has a range of eye-catching traits. From good hands in the air and at ground level, reading the play well and making good decisions with ball-in-hand, Long has shown she has what it takes to make the next level.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #24

DRAFT LOOK:

Highly rated internally through the Queensland program, Long is a player who could blossom with the right development, and the Lions have shown to give just that to their Academy players. Would be among the top three to four Lions teenagers on the club’s radar, but also would have caught eyes across the eastern seaboard for her national carnival.

STATE RANKING: #3

Kayley Kavanagh has relentlessly worked her way up draft boards this year off the back of sheer hard work. By her own admission she did not consider herself a chance for Vic Metro, but form in the Talent League earned her a late call-up to the Under 23s side against the AFLW Academy, then into the Metro team. From there, she just kept rising, racking up 11 clearances upon her Metro debut, and would finish the carnival as Metro’s MVP and an All-Australian.

Kavanagh’s meteoric rise has justified her place in the Top 30, having hovered around there with improvements to make to her outside game. They have been in the works through the carnival and Talent League, with her form undeniably good. Her hands on the inside and defensive traits are outstanding, and her offensive impact is rising.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #25

DRAFT LOOK:

On paper, few have had more glittering seasons than Kavanagh. The Vic Metro MVP and All-Australian would be a consideration for the zoned Bombers, but is more likely to land at a club with less midfield depth. Kavanagh could be a great value add to an on-ball group.

STATE RANKING: #11

Hayley McLaughlin is one of those specialist wingers which seems to be in vogue in the AFL Women’s. A hard running, clean talent, McLaughlin does a lot right with her work around the ground, and while she has had stints on the inside, is largely that pure outside player. She loves to win the ball between the arcs and try and break the lines, or at the very least, release teammates into space. A dual sportsperson as a talented cricketer, McLaughlin has enjoyed a wonderfully consistent season for both Eastern Ranges and in the first two games for Vic Metro.

McLaughlin can tend to fly under the radar with both Pisano and Stone in her side, but has picked up 20-plus disposals in six of her 10 matches, with her lowest count for the season being 14. Though it would be nice to see her hitting the scoreboard a little more, she is clean by hand or foot and generally makes good decisions. She is averaging 20.7 disposals, 4.0 marks, 2.4 inside 50s, 2.6 rebound 50s and laid 3.3 tackles per match.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #28

DRAFT LOOK:

McLaughlin is linked to the Hawks via Eastern’s ties with Hawthorn. Despite that, she could well go through the open draft itself. A specialist winger who plays the vital role well, just about every Victorian club would be interested in adding that kind of outside talent to its list.

STATE RANKING: #13

Sarah Grunden has been a draft bolter this season, coming into the Calder Cannons program as a player with some outstanding traits. She catches the eye with her ability both in the air and at ground level, demonstrating clean and slick skills which set her apart.

Her defensive pressure is also a facet of her game that stands up to the litmus test, averaging 5.0 tackles per game to go with 13.6 disposals, 2.1 marks and 3.4 inside 50s. Rotating between midfield and attack, Grunden has far more impact as that half-forward. More of an upside type, Grunden’s influence is outside the stats sheet, usually making things happen with her movement and disposal.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #23

DRAFT LOOK:

Tipped to go in the open draft, Grunden is one of a number of players who will range quite substantially depending on the club in question. She has areas to work on, but with her traits that are hard to come by, expect her to be among the top 25 names, or certainly in contention for the Victorian first round.

STATE RANKING: #10

Rigoni is the sole over-age player in this AFLW Draft Power Rankings and enters off some eye-catching form for the Under 23 All-Stars and Vic Metro across the month of June. She is the daughter of Guy, who played 107 games for Melbourne. It makes her eligible for the Demons and one who has plenty of upside should they – or any other side – choose to draft her.

Though Rigoni was overlooked, she missed 2022 through an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury after playing at both ends for Oakleigh Chargers. Now settled as a rebounding defender and winger, Rigoni has the athleticism and dare that catches the eye. She is not afraid to take multiple bounces down a wing and move the ball forward in transition. She has areas such as decision making to improve on, but is a natural athlete with some serious highlights.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #32

DRAFT LOOK:

If you though Melbourne could not get any stronger, enter Rigoni, who has had a sensational over-age season in 2023. Linked via the father-daughter rule, one would expect the speedster to land at the red and blue, but would likely have to match a bid with a mid-draft selection.

STATE RANKING: #12

If consistency is key, then one can look no further than West Australian Henry, who has been one of the few AFLW Draft prospects from Western Australia who has looked likely from when they first stepped into a senior lineup. Making her debut in her double bottom-age year, Henry played as a defender for 18 months and caught the eye with her reliable kicking, strong hands, good decision making and one-on-one work. Once she played for Western Australia at the 2022 AFLW Under 18 Championships as a midfielder, her club side Swan Districts followed suit.

Since then, Henry has continued on her merry way as a hard-at-it inside midfielder. She has outstandingly clean hands at the stoppage, puts her body in the way and is a someone who can always role back to defence given she has the height and strength to match tall forwards. The knock will come on her athleticism with her speed, but she has the power to shrug off tackles, and footy IQ through the roof. If clubs can see her as that inside midfielder or rebounding defender, she is more than capable of making a big impact at AFLW level.

SEPTEMBER RANK: #26

DRAFT LOOK:

Henry will be a fascinating watch at the AFLW Draft. She has openly said she will travel anywhere to play at the elite level, and does not follow teams, but rather players. With the depth of midfield talent at the West Australian teams, do not be surprised if the AFLW Academy member ends up interstate, and she is one of the more readymade players with an outstanding character.

STATE RANKING: #4

Another surprise draft bolter out of the Sunshine State, Bischa had the perfect carnival for a defender. Playing on some incredible opponents such as Lauren Young, Ash Centra and at times Georgia Clark, Bischa only conceded one goal to her direct opponent across the carnival. At some point, her sheer weight of performance comes into it. But aside from just being a lockdown defender, Bischa wins her own ball, so has that offensive element to her game. Though accountable, she can peel off into the dangerous spots to try and intercept, or mop up if a spill comes from the defensive 50 stoppage.

Her clean hands at ground level – generally one-touch – closing speed and reading of the play all stand out, with the next improvement just being her positioning in marking contests. Though she is good at getting the ball to ground, against bigger opponents, Bischa can tend to get pushed under the ball, which smart opponents will make her pay. Still, she is highly competitive, has enough athletic and football traits that standout and she earned a place in the Top 30 off the back of an impressive carnival.

AUGUST RANKING: #29

DRAFT LOOK:

A favourite amongst her teammates and coaching staff, Bischa is an underrated defender who would likely be snapped up by the Gold Coast Suns. A unique talent, she is the second ranked Suns Academy player on the board.

STATE RANKING: #4

O’Rourke is a talent who has all the pieces to be a very good player, and started to put them together in her top-age year. Standing at 176cm, O’Rourke was largely among the best Pioneers in each of her side’s games, and hit the scoreboard in the first five. Able to be a threat aerially, as well as play midfield or forward, O’Rourke has that explosive speed out of the blocks and a high upside for the future.

In 2023, O’Rourke averaged 16.1 disposals, 2.7 marks, 3.8 inside 50s and booted 6.3, with a lot of her goals coming from long-range on the run. She does have a booming kick and a long stride able to create separation on her opponents, and is rated highly internally by the Pioneers for her work within the group. Her defensive game is still one that is developing though she laid a career-high nine tackles twice this year – and her endurance has a long way to go – but her bursts allow her to impact games.

SEPTEMER RANKING: #27

DRAFT LOOK:

Another player who could be as high as among the top 10 Victorian talents or slide down the order, O’Rourke has enough traits about her for a club to provide her with a well-rounded game.

STATE RANKING: #13

A member of the AFLW Academy, Rania Crozier is a difficult one to place. Similar to Cleaver, her athleticism for a tall is very rare, and her marking ability is simply sensational. Crozier boasts explosive speed on the lead, an ability to jump over opponents with ease and constantly looks dangerous inside 50. The big question mark, similar to Cleaver, comes in her final execution.

Crozier works incredibly hard and can often kick the most ridiculous goals, yet spray set shots which shows a work in progress. She missed a season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, and went through the QAFLW last year upon return. She shot into draft calculations following an invitation into the AFLW Academy, and while she is not the finished product just yet, has the traits that make it evident why she has enormous potential.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #31

DRAFT LOOK:

Given Brisbane lost a couple of key goalkickers over the off-season, the Lions will be pleased to see the development of Crozier whose last 12 months have been impressive. Expect the Season 5 premiers to pick her up, with the athletic marking target filling a clear need in the Sunshine State.

STATE RANKING: #5

A member of the Sydney Swans Academy, Holly Cooper is a prospect who just naturally catches the eye with her play. A 164cm winger, the top-age talent has all the traits that fans love to see with a mix of speed, defensive pressure and lovely technique by hand or foot. She is not always the highest of accumulators, but finds enough to be able to have a serious impact on the game.

Cooper is a player who through her three Talent League Girls games, averaged 17.3 disposals, 2.3 marks, 5.3 inside 50s and 7.7 tackles showing a great deal of offensive and defensive attributes. Highly rated internally, Cooper can be one who flies under the radar due to her more developed Academy teammates, but from a pure upside and skill perspective, is arguably the top pick.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #36

DRAFT LOOK:

Highly touted by Sydney at the start of the year, Cooper could end up the first Swans Academy player picked given her upside. Her athletic traits are outstanding, she can play inside or outside and is a local talent. Cooper ticks a lot of boxes for the rising red and white side.

STATE RANKING: #3

Lily Jordan has done enough this year to suggest she has come along in leaps and bounds and is capable of taking the next step. As a bottom-ager, the small forward showed promising signs but was inconsistent, something she has worked on this year.

Bursting out of the blocks early in 2023, Jordan slotted 10 goals in three games to be the leading goalkicker at that point in time. Since then she has only kicked the one goal for the Falcons, but instead focused her attention on defensive pressure, laying 27 tackles in the next three weeks. What stands out about Jordan is her clean hands at ground level, competitive nature around the ball and has effective skills with ball-in-hand.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #30

DRAFT LOOK:

Not having a Draft Combine invite makes it tricky for the forward, but would be among the best outside of that. Her traits are good enough to play at the top level and it will just be a case of if a club takes a punt on her later on.

STATE RANKING: #14

Isabel Bacon began 2023 as a raw talent with some eye-catching traits, and finished the year like a house on fire with one strong performance after another. A natural athlete who has been tracked by clubs since coming into the Dragons program as a top-ager, Bacon averaged 13.7 disposals and 7.5 tackles through the regular season. Her defensive pressure alongside her explosiveness is what stands out in her game, as well as her versatility.

For Vic Metro, Bacon spent more time at half-back, averaging more than two rebound 50s per game to go with 11.3 disposals, 2.7 marks and 4.3 tackles, spreading well and impacting the contest. At the Dragons, she moved onto a wing and then on the inside, where she finished the year with three 20-plus disposal matches in the last five weeks. Not only that, but Bacon laid a ridiculous 57 tackles in that time, an average of 11.4.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: Unranked

DRAFT LOOK:

Bacon had a massive game in the final round to force her way into the Power Rankings, and clubs would only be more and more impressed with what she has been able to produce. A tough one to pick where she lands, she could be a first round bolter or a mid-draft option given her balance of offensive and defensive traits.

STATE RANKING: #15

Mel Staunton has had an interrupted year due to injury and only ended up playing the AFLW Academy match against the Under 23 All-Stars, as well as three Coates Talent League Girls matches. Her peak came in representing Australia where she won the MVP for the AFLW Academy playing half-forward/midfield in the narrow loss. In that match, Staunton picked up 17 disposals, three marks, four tackles and three clearances showing off her nice burst.

That game was her last game for the year, with only a combined six matches played – three Talent League Girls and two AFL Sydney games – which means her exposure at the elite level is minimal. Having only come into an elite program over the off-season, she is a difficult one to judge, with clear upside, but needing some continuity to get a good idea of where she sits. At Talent League level, Staunton averaged 20.7 disposals, 1.7 marks, 4.0 inside 50s, 2.0 rebound 50s and 5.3 tackles per match.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #33

DRAFT LOOK:

Another tricky player to rate given her lack of football, Staunton has first round attributes and on potential, but could more loom as a mid-draft option. No guarantees she necessarily lands at the GIANTS, though it seems the most likely destination given her ties. Having enjoyed her time in Victoria for the AFLW Academy, Staunton could well consider options in Victoria.

STATE RANKING: #3

One Queenslander who has come along in leaps and bounds this year is talented midfielder/forward Jacinta Baldwick. One of a number of helmeted Maroons, Baldwick burst onto the scene for the Lions Academy, producing three consistent performances at Talent League level where she kicked two goals and averaged 19 disposals, 3.3 inside 50s and 4.7 tackles per game.

At AFLW Under 18 Championships level, Baldwick averaged 12.3 disposals, 1.7 marks, 4.0 tackles and kicked three goals across her three games to show she could match it with the best. Her standout performance for the year came in the QAFL Women’s however, as she slammed home five goals from 20 disposals in Coorparoo’s 11-goal win over Maroochydore in Round 9. It showed she could easily play as a lead-out forward, as well as an inside or outside midfielder, giving her a great array of draftable positions.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #35

DRAFT LOOK:

Possessing all the traits and tricks as that midfielder/forward, Baldwick could do a lot of damage on the big stage. Having already competed at senior level through the QAFLW, expect the Lions to take a really close look at her, as would the Suns

STATE RANKING: #7

Dandenong Stingrays skipper Jemma Ramsdale is a strong intercept and lockdown defender who got better throughout the course of the year, and played many of her best games in the pointy end of the season. She is impressive one-on-one, accountable, and knows when to run off and stay behind, taking the toughest jobs for her teams.

With the Stingrays, Ramsdale had some inconsistent form earlier in the year, and while she only played the two championships matches, finished with a bang against Western Australia with a massive 21 disposals, four marks, six tackles, four clearances, two inside 50s and four rebound 50s. That form continued into the Talent League, and while still having some limitations in regards to her profile, overall has been good enough to deserve a spot on this list.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #40

DRAFT LOOK:

Off the back of an outstanding finish to the Talent Leagues season, Ramsdale showed she does not shy away from the big defensive jobs and would have earned plenty of plaudits from AFLW clubs. As one of only a few natural stoppers who still provide rebound, she would be in the mid-draft thinking.

STATE RANKING: #16

How much does consistency and balance of traits come into drafting prospects? Kiera Whiley may be the best case study of that this year. The Western Jets skipper does not really have a major weakness, and while others might have one or two elite traits with some clear deficiencies, Whiley is a player who is either above average or average across the board. She is clean by hand or foot, can use both sides of her body and moves well out the back of the stoppage, as well as having played in multiple positions.

Whiley is arguably too consistent not to be picked up, and her work rate and defensive pressure is definitely an area that will appeal to clubs. She averaged 16.0 disposals, 5.0 clearances and 4.7 tackles at the national championships, and while she largely did her best work on the inside this season, has scope to play outside as she has in previous years.

SEPTEMBER RANKING: #37

DRAFT LOOK:

Whiley should have her fans off the back of a rock solid 2023 season. She is another mid-draft option with her versatility a key factor in clubs’ decisions.

STATE RANKING: #16

One of the most clinical and technically sound rucks in the AFLW Draft crop, Vukic is slightly undersized to play that role at the top level, so has been gaining experience as a forward. Vukic kicked a goal from 12 disposals and four marks in the Ranges’ Round 3 win over Dandenong Stingrays, but only hit the scoreboard once more for the rest of the Talent League season. She gained more ruck minutes through the finals series after teammate Jacinta Hose went down, averaging 16.5 hitouts for the Ranges, including a commanding 28 in the Talent League Grand Final.

Able to play all three matches for Vic Metro, Vukic won 11 hitouts per game from an average of seven disposals. Though not yet a consistent contested mark, Vukic has clear upside with her vertical jump. At 180cm, she could very well play a second ruck role, and her footy IQ when it comes to her tap work is unmatched in this draft. Still developing other areas of her game, she is more of a long-term prospect but certainly one who will improve with further development

SEPTEMBER RANKING: Unranked

DRAFT LOOK:

If Hawthorn opt for a tall to pre-list, then Vukic could be a great shout. She is more than capable of rolling through the ruck, and though a touch undersized, could spend time developing as a key forward. In an open draft with less tall options, Vukic will likely go inside the Victorian first round.

STATE RANKING: #17

The ultimate utility, Raison is a player who is rare in the sense that she can literally play any position on the field. Though largely a key forward who can rotate into the ruck, the 181cm tall has also spent time in defence – mainly her bottom-age national carnival – and had stints through the middle for a quarter or half here or there – at this year’s national carnival.  It means clubs can view her as a ‘fix it’ player who can fill in a hole across the team sheet rather than being pidgeonholed into a particular area.

Her speed and athleticism is the main knock on her game in the era of athletic players, but on the flip side, her contested marking and penetrating kick is something that is equally sought after in the women’s game. As a natural leader – she captained Western Australia at the championships – Raison is one who is comfortable playing a multitude of roles in a game and has indicated she will go interstate to chase her dream.

AUGUST RANKING: #39

DRAFT LOOK:

A player who could land anywhere in the unpredictable draft. A 180cm versatile talent, a club lacking targets around the ground might go earlier on the West Australian, though depending on preferences, Raison could land around this mark.

STATE RANKING: #5