TWO of Melbourne’s star players have been recognised for exceptional individual campaigns in the red and blue, named in the AFLW’s Season Seven All-Australian team.
Kate Hore and Olivia Purcell have both received selections in the prestigious side, a testament to their talent after what has been the most competitive season in the league’s history, with all 18 teams represented in the competition.
Hore’s selection comes at half-forward and is her second All-Australian nod, first receiving honours during the 2020 season.
Now in her sixth season at the Dees, the crafty forward has thrived in her new role as vice-captain, leading the side, alongside Daisy Pearce, to their second grand final berth in seven months.
In addition to her leadership development, Hore has also continued to be a reliable contributor with her on-field skills, leading the league for average score involvements (4.7) and placing second in the overall goal tally with 17.
While Hore represents the red and blue up forward, Purcell comes into the mix on the interchange bench.
The 22-year-old received her first All-Australian selection back in 2020 and, after 12 months on the sidelines with an ACL injury, in 2022 pushed herself to new levels, putting in career-best numbers and contributing to Melbourne’s elite midfield.
The inside-mid is known for her competitiveness and determination to win at the contest, averaging a career-high 24.4 disposals and four clearances per game.
Tayla Harris and Karen Paxman were also members of the All-Australian squad for this season but missed out on selection in the final 21.
The selection panel for the side consisted of Nicole Livingstone (Chairperson), Sarah Black, Sam Virgo, Andrew Dillon, Laura Kane, Kelli Underwood, Megan Waters, Narelle Smith and Tim Harrington, with the final 21 announced on Tuesday night at the W Awards night.
