Ella Roberts and Kiara Bowers were both recognised by their AFLW peers.
UPDATE: In an exciting turn of events, West Coast Eagles star Ella Roberts has been officially recognized by her peers as a top-three player at the AFLW Players’ Association’s MVP Awards, just one day after finishing fourth in the league’s best-and-fairest award. Roberts secured third place in the AFLPA MVP voting, showcasing her rapid ascent in the league.
The prestigious award was claimed by Jasmine Garner, who took home the MVP title for the third time, solidifying her standing as one of the league’s greatest players. Garner’s victory breaks a tie with Erin Phillips for the most MVP wins in the league’s history, previously achieved in 2020 and 2023.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Garner expressed gratitude, stating, “It is a huge honour to receive the MVP. It’s a really special award. This feels as special as the previous years, and I’m really proud to be recognized by the people I play against and with each week as their Most Valuable Player.”
In addition to Roberts’ achievement, Fremantle’s Kiara Bowers was honored as the Most Courageous Player, reflecting her relentless toughness on the field. This recognition marks the second time Bowers has received this award, having previously won it in 2020. West Coast’s Jess Rentsch finished closely behind in the voting for this category.
The talent pool was further highlighted by Zippy Fish from Sydney, who was named the Best First-Year Player following an impressive debut season. Fish’s performance earned her the title of Rising Star, awarded on Monday.
This year’s MVP Awards not only celebrate individual excellence but also highlight the growing competitiveness and talent in the AFLW. The recognition of players like Roberts and Fish signals a bright future for women’s football in Australia, resonating with fans and inspiring young athletes across the country.
As the AFLW continues to evolve, the next season promises to bring even more thrilling developments. Stay tuned as we cover upcoming matches, player performances, and further announcements from the league.
