MELBOURNE’S young talent has been recognised with defender Tahlia Gillard receiving a nomination for the 2022 NAB AFLW Rising Star Award.
The Demon, who is 12 games into her AFLW career, has been acknowledged following her strong defensive display in Melbourne’s 41-point win over Essendon on Sunday afternoon.
The defender was instrumental in the win, working closely alongside experienced teammate Libby Birch to shut down the opposition, with the two collecting a combined 15 intercept possessions.
Gillard herself registered nine disposals, 251 metres gained, three rebound 50s and two tackles.
Senior coach Mick Stinear praised Gillard and her teammates in defence following their win on Sunday.
"Tahlia Gillard – who’s been a key defender as an 18-year-old all season – I thought she’s been outstanding," Stinear said.
"I thought the back five or six did a really good job of limiting their scoring opportunities... that backline is continuing to grow."
Joining the Demons in July last year, Gillard has quickly developed into a pillar of Melbourne’s backline and standing at 190cm tall, has used her height and skills to become an impressive key defender.
The 18-year-old first arrived at Melbourne during the 2021 NAB AFL Women’s Draft, coming to the club from the Calder Cannons with pick No.42.
She debuted for the red and blue in Round 8 of season six and went on to play two more games in her first campaign.
The 2022 NAB AFLW Rising Star Award recipient is announced at the end of the home-and-away season during the W Awards night, with the winner required to be a player under the age of 21.
