Essendon youngsters Steph Wales and Amy Gaylor have been named in the 2024 AFLW 22under22 Squad, presented by Torrens University Australia.

The duo have been two of the shining lights in a promising campaign for the Bombers, playing key roles in propelling the side to a second consecutive finals berth.

In her third season as the Bombers’ primary ruck, the 21-year-old Wales has flourished into one of the side’s most integral players, averaging 23 hit-outs and 13 disposals across the course of the campaign.

Finishing third in the Dons’ 2023 Best and Fairest count, Wales had already enjoyed a breakout season building into this year but continued to go from strength to strength, with her starring effort against the Saints in round three a season-high.

Despite an ill-timed ACL injury cutting her year short in the final round, the ruck’s impact has been clear to see.

For Gaylor, it’s been a debut season to remember.

The 19-year-old has slotted into the Bombers’ defence with aplomb this year, easing into the level and averaging 13 disposals and three tackles per game in a new role.

Gaylor’s important 15-disposal, four-tackle effort against Sydney in round six was recognised with the Rising Star Nomination for the round, placing her in the running for the award at season’s end.

Having joined the club as a midfielder and initially training as a forward, the teenager’s versatility has been a strong suit from the early stages of her career, seemingly getting better as the season’s worn on.

Get your votes in to secure Gaylor and Wales’ places in the final team here.

The final team for the 22under22 will be named at the conclusion of the AFLW season.