Former Donegal skipper Niamh McLaughlin makes prestigious AFLW All-Australian Team
After earning selection in the extended 42-player squad for the first time earlier this month, the Moville native was named on the interchange among the league’s finest 21 on Monday night.
Niamh McLaughlin is one of five Irish players have earned places on the 2025 AFLW All-Australian team.
Announced during the W Awards ceremony in Melbourne, the lineup features Bláithín Bogue, Jennifer Dunne, Moville’s McLaughlin, Áine McDonagh and Dayna Finn.
After earning selection in the extended 42-player squad for the first time earlier this month, McLaughlin was named on the interchange among the league’s finest 21 on Monday night.
The prestigious honour adds another record to the 2025 books for the 32-year-old who had a career-best season as the first Irish player to captain either an AFL or AFLW side.
The versatile defender played a pivotal role in all 12 of the Suns matches this season, averaging career-high 23.3 disposals at 72.9% efficiency whilst also leading the league for total bounces for the second time in her three seasons in the competition.
Suns head coach Rhyce Shaw was pleased to see the former Donegal LGFA senior team skipper earn her inaugural blazer.
“It’s fantastic to see Niamh earn her first All Australian selection,” Shaw said.
“Niamh has consistently led by example both on and off the field in her first season as co-captain and we’re thrilled to see her recognised on the big stage.”