MELBOURNE is preparing to compete in its first hit-out of the pre-season, facing Carlton at IKON Park on Friday night.
The Dees will be without four of its players while they complete rehab for their respective injuries, with the club’s AFLW High Performance Manager Sam Batterton providing an update on Gab Colvin, Paxy Paxman, Jemma Rigoni and Lily Johnson.
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“Gab sustained a calf strain a few weeks ago and is at the backend of her rehab but won’t be available this week,” Batterton said.
“Paxy has a minor foot injury, it will be a short-term injury, she’ll look to do more training with the main group to prepare for a potential return for the Port Adelaide practice match.
“Jemma has a groin injury that she’s managed through the pre-season. We’ll look to build her up over the next few weeks towards a return to play.
“Lily has an Achilles injury and is right at the end of this, she’s doing really well and is back running. She’ll look to reintegrate with the main group soon.”
In addition to the above players, Tayla Harris will also be on the sidelines for the Friday night match arriving home from Paris the day prior.
The club’s Head of Women’s Football Jessie Mulholland provided an update on the Demon’s availability.
“Tayla was presented with an incredible opportunity to go to Paris for the Olympics,” Mulholland said.
“This idea was brought to the club several months ago, and we recognised it as a perfect learning experience for Tayla and a chance to bring valuable insight back to the club.
“In Paris, Tayla will be engaging with some of the world’s greatest female athletes, and upon her return she will share her experiences and learning with the team, providing us with a unique perspective on achieving high performance in various fields.”
Blaithin Mackin will be the final Demon missing from the pre-season game as she returns from Ireland following the completion of the Gaelic Football Association competition.
Dees fans can enjoy the first taste of AFLW footy on Friday night, with IKON Park open to fans.
Carlton is encouraging supporters to register their attendance here and enjoy food, drinks and entertainment.
