Tilly Lucas-Rodd’s standout season has been rewarded with her maiden selection in the 40-woman AFL Women’s All-Australian squad.

Lucas-Rodd’s move from defence to the midfield – precipitated by the unavailability of several key players – spelled a career-best season for the 25-year-old, with her ferocity at the coalface and clean use a constant throughout the year.  

The hardworking Saint was one of her side’s most dependable and influential players during St Kilda’s third AFLW campaign, finishing the year with an average of 20 disposals (11 contested), seven tackles and four clearances per game.

Although topping the Saints’ possessions tally in eight out of the club’s 10 games in 2022, her terrific outing against Geelong in Round 9 stood in a league of its own.

Lucas-Rodd became just the fourth AFLW player to register 10+ contested possessions, tackles and clearances in a game, with a perfect 10 coaches’ votes adding to the brilliant outing at RSEA Park.

The 25-year-old additionally placed inside the competition’s top-10 for total contested possessions (fourth), tackles (fifth), clearances (ninth) and disposals (10th) at the conclusion of the home-and-away season, leading the Saints in all categories.

The 2022 AFL Women’s All-Australian team will be announced at the 2022 W Awards on Tuesday 5 April.