MELBOURNE’S Round 1 performance has been highlighted with five Demons polling in the race for the AFL Coaches’ Association’s AFLW Champion Player of the Year Award.

In her first outing at the helm, skipper Kate Hore received a team-high seven votes, picking up where she left off in 2022.

The reigning best and fairest recipient slotted straight back into her commanding role inside 50, while continuing to bring her competitiveness across the ground.

Shelley Heath kicked a career-high two goals in a display that earned her five votes.

While Heath impacted up forward, it was her dominance in the contest that was particularly impressive, registering 11 tackles.

Tyla Hanks and Alyssa Bannan both polled three votes apiece, Hanks bringing back her silky skills and Bannan shining in the forward line with three goals. 

Tayla Harris (two votes) was also back to her usual ways and polled for an aerially imposing performance with a game-high four contested marks.  

Rounding out the polling for the night was Collingwood’s Brianna Davey who received a perfect score from both coaches after a dominant 35-disposal game.

Check out the full list of votes below.

Melbourne v Collingwood
10 - Brianna Davey (COLL)
7 - Kate Hore (MELB)
5 - Shelley Heath (MELB)
3 - Tyla Hanks (MELB)
3 - Alyssa Bannan (MELB)
2 - Tayla Harris (MELB)