PORT ADELAIDE’s strong 2024 NAB AFLW season has been rewarded with three players named in the All-Australian squad of 42.
Defender Amelie Borg, ruck Matilda Scholz and midfielder Shineah Goody have each been included in the squad for the first time in recognition of their outstanding individual seasons.
In the absence of injured captain Janelle Cuthbertson, Borg has stood tall in the backline, consistently being tasked with marking some of the best forwards in the competition and regularly holding her own.
The 19-year-old is averaging 3.2 tackles and 2.7 spoils per game with her performances prompting Port Adelaide senior coach Lauren Arnell to suggest she should be in the frame for All-Australian honours.
Scholz has caught the eye with her ability to follow up her ruck work at ground level and her clearance work.
Averaging 14 disposals to go with 21.5 hit-outs and 4.5 clearances, the talented 19-year-old has gone from strength to strength in just her second AFLW campaign.
Also 19, Goody burst onto the scene with her AFLW debut in Week 1 earning her a Telstra AFLW Rising Star nomination.
Her ability to read the play and use the ball well combined with her athleticism and strength overhead has made her a valuable inclusion in the Port Adelaide side this season.
She is averaging 12.8 disposals and 5.1 tackles per game and continues to show maturity beyond her years and experience at the highest level.
No Port Adelaide player has previously made the final AFLW All-Australian team of 21.
This year’s side will be announced at the W Awards on Monday, 25 November.
The All-Australian Panel consists of Andrew Dillon (chair), Laura Kane, Josh Mahoney, Emma Moore, Erin Phillips, Eliza Reilly, Jason Bennett, Kelli Underwood, Sarah Black, Gemma Bastiani, Katie Loynes, Narelle Smith and Megan Waters.
