MELBOURNE women’s coach Mick Stinear provides an update on all 30 players in the lead-up to the 2018 NAB AFL Women’s competition. Be sure to check back each day over the festive/New Year season, as we present the 2018 squad alphabetically …
Karen Paxman
Paxy is another one from the Darebin Falcons, who had a successful VFLW season. She had a well-earned break in October and the Christmas/New Year break also came at a good time, just to freshen her up, so she’s ready to go. Her running game is extraordinary, combined with her ability to take the ball forward. Paxy’s skill in tight makes her a serious weapon. We’re looking forward to her again being a key player in our second season.
Daisy Pearce
Another Darebin Falcon who had a massive year. She had a successful AFLW season and VFLW season with Darebin. Daisy has put a power of work into increasing her conditioning. Her game knowledge has been outstanding in connecting our group – starting with a pre-season trip to Bondi. She shows genuine care for her teammates and is determined to see this group succeed. A key driver of her group, Daisy’s fundamentals have gone to another level.
Lauren Pearce
She’s another one who has had a big year, with the AFLW season and then with the Darebin Falcons in the VFLW. Her game continues to evolve and improve. She looks to be developing well and will play ruck and forward. Lauren is very good in the air and very smart with her body, in one-on-one contests. She’s a real competitor and will be one that’s hanging out for the season to start, so she can get stuck into it. Lauren’s developing into a very good leader among the group.
Cat Phillips
Cat stepped away from the VFLW season to focus on her preparation for AFLW and her commitments with Ultimate Frisbee. She has a great attitude and is determined to get the best out of herself. In her second season, she’s showing great support for her teammates and really setting the standard and challenging them to be their best. Her running game has gone to another level and combine that with her skill and fundamental development, she’s ready to go for season two. We’re looking forward to seeing her in action.
Shelley Scott
Shelley’s had a tough start to the AFLW program, with a knee injury carrying over from the VFLW season. She’s a key person and player among our team – she has outstanding character and always puts the team first. Shelley has been really committed to her rehab, and fingers crossed she’s ready to go in January when the program resumes. We see her being a key part of our forward line. I know her teammates are looking forward to having her back out on the track with them.
