INAUGURAL Demon Lily Mithen will depart for the Gold Coast Suns, after Melbourne agreed to a multi-club trade on Friday.
Mithen, who has played 82 games in the red and blue, will head north, with the Demons receiving selection No.2 and No.20 in the deal. Melbourne will also part ways with pick No.10, 28 and 46.
Melbourne AFLW List Manager Todd Patterson thanked Mithen for her remarkable contribution over the past nine seasons.
“Lily has been a terrific servant for our club over her journey, and as an inaugural player, her contribution cannot be underestimated,” Patterson said.
“She has been an integral member of a program, and given an enormous amount to her teammates, her coaches and the broader club. To watch her grow from an 18-year-old, as both a player and a person, over the past nine seasons has been incredibly rewarding.
“In recent weeks, Lily and her management team identified an opportunity and lifestyle change that could work for her. Testament to Lily’s character, she was only willing to explore an option that would put the club in a favourable position, such as a return like pick No.2.
“We thank Lily for all she has given during her time in the red and blue. She will forever be part of the Melbourne family.”
Mithen joined the Demons ahead of the inaugural season of the AFL Women’s competition, selected with pick No.73 in the 2016 draft.
She made her debut in Round 1 the following year, quickly becoming a reliable and consistent cog in the Dees’ line-up.
Mithen departs having achieved the ultimate success, a premiership medallion in Season 7, and as a winner of the club’s Demon Spirit Award (2023) for best embodying the club’s values.
The 26-year-old reflected on her time as a Dee.
“This club has meant the world to me for the last nine years. It has been my second home, and has been my favourite place to be,” Mithen said.
“I have been so fortunate to spend my time at the Melbourne Football Club alongside the most amazing people who have and will continue to support me as well as inspire me.
“I’d like to thank my teammates and coaches, the club as a whole and of course the Dees faithful for making my time in the red and blue the most incredible ride. It’s a journey I’ve absolutely adored, and I could not be more grateful for what I have been able to experience and achieve.
“I feel as though I’ve given everything that I possibly could have to this team and footy club since arriving as an 18-year-old and whilst I’m proud of my contribution to this club, I also know I will miss being inside the four walls. I consider myself extremely lucky to leave with memories I’ll have forever and friendships that will last a lifetime.
“The Melbourne Football Club has shaped me into who I am today, from a young school kid to an adult, this club has had a profound impact on me. This great club will forever hold a special place in my heart – I thank you all for your love and support and I will forever be proud to be part of the Melbourne Football Club story.”
