MELBOURNE’S Grace Beasley will miss the remainder of the AFL Women’s season after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) at training on Thursday.

The 24-year-old sustained the injury in a drill during the Demons’ Week 4 preparations, with scans later confirming the extent of the damage.

It marks a devastating blow for Beasley, who was finding her groove in the red and blue, having joined the Demons this season following a successful college basketball stint in the United States.

“It’s obviously an incredibly disappointing outcome for Grace, who has done nothing but impress us since arriving earlier this year,” Melbourne’s Head of Women’s Football Jessie Mulholland said.

“Grace has put in a mountain of work to get herself up to speed on footy, having not played since she was a junior, and was reaping the rewards on the field. It’s so unfortunate, for Grace and for the team.

“Grace’s professionalism has been a standout since day dot, and we know she will apply this same level of diligence to her recovery.

“We will rally around Grace and support her during this challenging period, and throughout every step of the journey ahead.”

Beasley, whose elite sporting background sets her apart, had added aggression and speed to the Dees’ midfield mix, averaging 11 disposals across her first three games of footy.

With Beasley forced to the sidelines, Melbourne has welcomed Grace Hill back into the side for this weekend’s clash with Fremantle.

The Demons will battle the Dockers on Saturday afternoon at Fremantle Oval.