Melbourne will welcome three exciting debutants to its AFLW side in Round 1, with Ryleigh Wotherspoon, Grace Hill, and Grace Beasley named for the clash against Geelong.

Wotherspoon, hailing from Mackay, was taken at pick No.12 in the 2023 AFLW Draft.

As a train-on player for Brisbane, she was a highly sought-after prospect, for her versatility, high-level fitness, and a love of physical contests.

Wotherspoon impressed in Melbourne’s recent practice match against Port Adelaide, where she kicked three goals.

Hill, who joined the Dees from GWS in last year’s sign and trade period, has quickly integrated well into the team’s defensive unit.

Offered an opportunity with the Dees early this year, Hill has impressed coaches with her tough defensive pressure, speed, and elite professionalism and standards.

Beasley’s journey into football was an unusual route, with the midfielder spending six years in the college basketball system.

First spotted by recruiters as a 17-year-old alongside teammate and former Demon Tegan Cunningham, the now 24-year-old didn’t take long to adjust to the Sherrin.

Beasley boasts plenty of natural talent, with speed and strength to boost Melbourne’s midfield engine room.

Melbourne take on Geelong in the first game of the AFLW season on Saturday 31 August at GMHBA at 7:15pm.