Swans, Kangaroos land AFLW trade targets

Hillier is yet to make her senior debut, having failed to break into a strong Lions back-line.

But the Swans like what they've seen in the 19-year-old, giving up pick 73 in next week's draft to secure her services in a straight swap.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kiara to the Swans," Sydney women's football boss Kate Mahony said.

"She's a really exciting player who simply hasn't had the opportunity on field amongst a really good side.

"We have been really impressed with her training and watched her play in a scrimmage match where she showed promising signs of a strong career at the elite level.

"With family already living in Sydney, Kiara is no stranger to the lifestyle here. We believe she will be a great fit for the club."

Atkinson is among a growing contingent of AFLW converts from Gaelic football, having captained Monaghan and been part of the 2018 O'Connor Cup championship side.

The 26-year-old, who spent time with Sydney as a train-on player in 2023, has signed a two-year deal with the Magpies as a Category B rookie.

"Muireann is an exciting utility who brings a strong appetite for the contest and physicality," Collingwood women's football boss Jess Burger said.

"She has already demonstrated her ability to upskill and apply both her physical and athletic traits across to our code in a very short amount of time.

"Her effortless sidestep, ability to use the ball on both sides and strong fend off will be key features of her game."

Atkinson joins fellow Irish players Sarah Rowe and Aishling Sheridan at Collingwood.

Also on Monday, North Melbourne confirmed the acquisition of star defender Libby Birch from Melbourne.

The two-time All-Australian requested a move last week and has been traded with pick 35 in exchange for pick 19.

Birch, 26, has won premierships with the Western Bulldogs (2018) and Melbourne (2022).

"We are excited to bring in a player of Libby's calibre as a two-time All-Australian and two-time premiership player," Kangaroos AFLW list boss Flynn Loft said.

"We know that she is going to thrive in our defensive system with her terrific ability to read the play to intercept and compete aerially.

"Libby is a great person and we are confident she is only going to add to our off-field dynamic by continuing to drive the standards and passing on her wealth of experience and knowledge."

Australian Associated Press