Essendon prepare to honour two of their back five by means of Maddison Gay and Alex Morcom reaching their 75 and 50-game milestones respectively. 

The defensive duo are looked up to by peers, both serving as members of the extended leadership group. They’ve been held in that regard since each landed at the NEC Hangar via unique pathways - both have been trusted across multiple lines in recent seasons and have earnt their share of internal and external accolades as a result. 

For Gay, this milestone in particular adds to a CV already cemented as one of the best in the competition’s history. A well-respected figure across the AFLW landscape, the former Dee was selected as a representative of Australia in the inaugural international match against Ireland earlier this year, in addition to being etched in history as part of Melbourne’s 2022 premiership side.

Gay’s 2024 season still reigns supreme as one of the best in the Bombers’ AFLW chapter to date. Averaging 20 disposals and five marks across the season, she earnt herself an Essendon best and fairest and a maiden All-Australian inclusion across the half back line. 

As it stands, the Vice-Captain’s natural footy IQ and leadership has translated well in a recent midfield move which propelled a breakthrough win against the GIANTS. Averaging 21 disposals and five marks this season, Gay looks to continue lifting her side week-to-week.

A Bomber through and through, Morcom is a long-serving product of the club's VFLW program who’s a genuine part of the fabric as far back as her involvement in the program’s 2022 premiership. 

Since debuting in round one of Season 7 - the inaugural AFLW match for the Dons - Morcom has established herself as an important component of the back half, providing fierceness through her elite one percenters and a willingness to attack any role given to her.

In an improved personal year, Morcom is exceeding multiple career averages on-field, including her current disposal average of 10.1 in the heart of defence, surpassing her career average of 8.8.

Additionally, Morcom is embracing responsibility off-field being tasked as an emerging leader alongside teammates Mia Busch, Emily Gough and Georgia Clarke.

A reliable figure, admired most by her teammates and honoured with Essendon’s Players’ Player Award in 2023. Morcom encompasses all aspects of what it means to be an Essendon player on and off the field. 

Essendon look to take on Hawthorn at Kennedy Community Centre from 3:05pm (AEDT) this Sunday 25 October.