Essendon have announced their first batch of nominees for the 2024 AFL Players’ AFLW MVP Awards.

As voted by the Dons’ playing group, tough forward Daria Bannister is up for the Most Courageous Player award, presented by Tackle Your Feelings, while emerging defender Amy Gaylor is the club’s nominee for Best First Year Player, presented by Torrens University Australia.

Co-Captains Bonnie Toogood and Steph Cain will again be in the running for Best Captain Award, presented by The Diamond Guys, after their third consecutive year sharing skipper duties.

Recognised by her peers in a year holding a successful recovery from an ACL tear last season, Bannister was one of the Dons’ most consistent forwards in 2024, with the 25-year-old’s brutish attack on the ball propelling her to a career-best 10 goals for the campaign.

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Highlights | Bannister reaches 50

Watch some of Daria Bannister's best moments throughout her career ahead of her 50th game this weekend.

Cain’s efforts were also notable - especially in the absence of Toogood to injury at different stages of the year - with her leadership a prevalent factor for the Dons’ young playing list.

Despite the mentioned injury setbacks, Toogood also played an important off-field presence and got back on the park to help the Dons secure their finals position in the second half of the year.

Gaylor was another shining light this season, with the composed 19-year-old playing in every game and looking at home on the AFLW stage as she built towards a first career final. She averaged 12 disposals per game in a new position off half back and received a Rising Star nomination in round six for her efforts against Sydney.

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Amy Gaylor is swarmed by Bombers after landing her maiden major in the big league in some style.

The winners of the AFL Players’ AFLW MVP Awards will be announced on Tuesday evening.