Melbourne have confirmed a final list change ahead of the AFLW season kicking off on January 7.
Young Demon Isabella Simmons has been moved to the inactive list after suffering a pre-season stress-fracture in her foot, with the club confirming that Simmons will miss the entirety of the season.
The 19-year-old was selected with pick 48 in the 2020 AFLW draft and is yet to debut with the senior side. At the club's VFLW affiliate, the Casey Demons, Simmons played nine games throughout 2021.
Melbourne AFLW Senior coach Mick Stinear told Melbourne Media that Simmons would still have a role at the club while recovering, with hopes that she could return to the VFLW side by April.
“While we were hoping for a quick recovery, unfortunately recent scans have revealed an injury that will see Issy miss the upcoming AFLW season,” Stinear said.
“This is disappointing and frustrating news for Issy, as she has been working hard to improve her game on and off field.
“Issy will shortly begin her rehab, in an effort to play at VFLW level in April or May, while taking the opportunity to learn and develop her understanding of the game.
“She will also play an important role in supporting her teammates during the week and on game day.”
With Simmons moved to the inactive list, the Demons have announced Melbourne teenager Maeve Chaplin will fill the remaining spot on the list, finalising the squad.
The 19-year-old, a product of the Northern Knights and Vic Metro, has been overlooked in two draft years but has been a consistent performer at junior clubs in both the midfield and defence.
Melbourne's AFLW list manager Todd Patterson said Chaplin had earned the call up, with the new Demon being informed of the news on Tuesday.
“Maeve is a powerful hybrid defender, who can also play as an inside midfielder,” he told Melbourne Media.
“She has been through the Northern Knights and talent pathway academies. As a result, she has been on our radar since 2020, and was incredibly unlucky not to be drafted.
“It’s a true credit to Maeve’s perseverance and the programs she has been in that she has made it onto an AFLW list, and we are looking forward to the impact she can have this season.”
Melbourne will begin their AFLW campaign on Saturday January 8 at Victoria University Whitten Oval against the Western Bulldogs.
