West Coast Eagles star Emma Swanson has been selected in the 2022 season seven AFLW All-Australian squad after dominating in the midfield.
The 27-year-old has been selected in the squad of 42 players with the final 21 being announced at the W awards on November 22.
It is Swanson’s third time she’s been selected in the squad after being selected in the inaugural season of the competition alongside a gong last season with the honour recognising elite individual performances by players across the AFLW home and away season.
The only Eagle to be selected in the squad, the midfielder was West Coast’s most consistent player across the season averaging 21.5 disposals, 5.5 clearances and 3.8 marks per game.
Swanson delivered a number of career-highs throughout the campaign, including nine clearances in the second win of the season against Greater Western Sydney as well as a 28-disposal performance later in the year against Western Bulldogs in round nine.
She ranked eighth in the AFLW in metres gained (325.9 per game) while off the field Swanson’s ability to lead the now youngest side in AFLW history was crucial in galvanising the new group.
Swanson was crowned Club Champion for season six of AFLW while also receiving the inaugural Trademark Player award.
Senior coach Michael Prior said her selection was more than warranted after another superb season.
“Swanny has been our most consistent player all season and she’s done a terrific job captaining such a young outfit,” he said.
“She’s carried the team when we need it and never leaves anything out on the field. It’s pretty inspiring stuff for our youngsters to look up to.
“She definitely belongs in this All-Australian squad and we look forward to seeing whether she can make the final 21.”
The final All-Australian 21 will be selected as if there were a match to play.
The 2022 Season Seven AFLW All -Australian selection panel is Nicole Livingstone (Chairperson), Sarah Black, Sam Virgo, Andrew Dillon, Laura Kane, Kelli Underwood, Megan Waters, Narelle Smith and Tim Harrington.