Hawthorn has selected athletic defender Grace Baba with Pick 28 in the 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft.
Baba featured for Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League across 2023 and 2024, notably starring in the 2023 Grand Final as a bottom-age player. In 2024 she earned a place in the Marsh AFL National Academy.
Her 2024 campaign was briefly interrupted by injury before returning for the final Marsh AFL National Championships game representing Vic Metro. She finished the season strongly for Eastern Ranges, picking up 21 disposals in the qualifying final and was among her team’s best in the Grand Final loss.
In addition to a background in soccer and hockey, Baba’s Draft Combine results saw her ranked first in the running vertical jump with a result of 67cm, whilst finishing in third overall in the 2km time trial with 7:46.
Pick 28 - Grace Baba
Coates Talent League Club – Eastern Ranges
Community Club - Mooroolbark
Position – Defender
Date of Birth – 17/09/2006
Height – 174cm
Strengths – Athleticism, aerial ability, aggression
