The Brisbane Lions AFLW side is set to play three debutants to take on Richmond in Round 1 of the 2023 NAB AFLW Season.
Charlotte Mullins and Ella Smith have been confirmed for their first outing in Lions colours, while rookie signing Analea McKee has also been named.
When announced to the group, Lions AFLW Head Coach, Craig Starcevich, was excited for each debutant and what they will offer his side.
“A hard runner, skillful user and a hard competitor, Ella brings a lot of good attributes, and we are looking forward to seeing what she can do for us on Sunday,” he said.
“Charlie has incredible footy smarts, her athleticism and voice we feel will be an asset to forward line.
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“Finally, Analea has been great asset to us since she’s arrived, when the ball comes in her area it’s always a 50/50 or won by her and it is something the group has really warmed to.”
Drafted in 2022, Mullins was selected with Pick 70 from the Aspley Hornets.
Another graduate of the Lions Academy, Mullins possesses a high football IQ and class with ball in hand.
Smith, a fellow 2022 draftee, will join Mullins in Lions AFLW Head coach Craig Starcevich’s side for Round 1.
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The dual-sport athlete has worked tirelessly with Lions development coach Damien Richards throughout last season and pre-season to do everything she could to crack into the AFLW side, to great effect.
Signed in June 2023, McKee had been plying her trade in the VFLW for Geelong playing predominately forward while pinch-hitting in the ruck before being picked up by the Lions.
Since arriving in Brisbane, McKee has gone from strength to strength, thriving at the Lions new Springfield base, according to Starcevich.
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Finally, delisted free agent signing Jade Pregelj, is set to play her first game in the maroon, blue and gold.
Having played 19 AFLW games for the SUNS across four seasons, Pregelj is no stranger to the highest level.
“A popular move, a hard competitor who backs herself to win the ball that is coming in and beat her opponent one-on-one,” Starcevich said.
“That is the best version of Jade and we can’t wait to see her get amongst it on the weekend.”
