Lauren Gauci and Amber Ward have both inked new deals with the Eagles, ensuring they’ll don blue and gold until the end of the 2022 season.

Gauci and Ward both hail from Adelaide, where they took home a premiership in the North Adelaide Roosters’ 2019 SANFLW campaign.

From there, the duo were drafted to the Eagles, and rapidly became defensive mainstays amongst the group.

Both players possess different defensive attributes, with Gauci known for her ability to rope in intercept possessions, while Ward is known for her spoils and smothers.

“The SA girls, we were really keen to get them signed away as quickly as we could, as well as give them clarity as soon as possible,” AFLW coach Daniel Pratt said.

“We were clear with them that they were required players, I feel like both of those girls will continue to develop and grow.

“Obviously Gauci didn’t play as much as Wardy, but she’s got a lot of raw talent which will keep developing.

“Wardy is experienced, and gained more playing down back this year in a team that is often under the pump.

“They’ll both really help us out in the future and we’re looking forward to having them back at the club.”