Superstar Hawthorn midfielder Emily Bates has become the first Hawk to be named in the AFLW All Australian squad following a stellar campaign in 2023.
In her debut season with the Hawks, the 28-year-old played every game and averaged 20.8 disposals, 9.7 tackles and 4.9 clearances.
The co-vice-captain ranked second in the league for tackles, having laid 10 or more tackles in five of the 10 games she played this year.
In a remarkable feat, Bates is yet to miss a game throughout her AFLW career.
She notched up her 75th match in the club’s Round 9 win against Port Adelaide and also kicked her first goal in Hawthorn colours during that game.
Bates has made the All Australian team three times in 2017, 2018 and 2022 (Season 6) to go with four club best and fairests, one league best and fairest and a premiership win in 2021.
The final All Australian team of 21 will be announced at the W Awards on Monday 27 November.
