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Former Mayo captain Saoirse Lally will make her AFLW debut this weekend for St Kilda, just 15 weeks after being drafted. The rising Gaelic star made the move from County Mayo in May after being selected with pick No. 7 in the 2026 AFLW Pre-Season Draft. Touted for her speed and football instincts, Lally’s athleticism and game sense have seen her make a rapid transition between codes, providing an exciting injection of talent for the Saints in 2026. See the moment St Kilda’s Irish contingent breaks the news to the debutant. “Saoirse’s ability to read the play, alongside her natural skills and aerobic capacity, has been a pleasure to watch develop over the past few months,” Head of Development and Assistant Coach Matthew Brewer said. “She’s had a fantastic pre-season since arriving, and it’s a testament to her work ethic and the hours she’s put in that she’s been able to make the transition from Gaelic football to AFLW look so seamless. “We can’t wait to see her take this opportunity with both hands. We know all her teammates will have her back when she runs out against Geelong this weekend.” St Kilda’s three Irish men’s players had the honour of breaking the news to the debutant. “I was honestly so shocked when I found out. Liam, Eamonn and Kobe broke the news to me and at first I didn’t even realise they were talking about me,” Lally said. “I can’t wait to run out there with the girls this weekend. “Everyone at the club has been so supportive since I arrived and has put so much time into helping me learn the game. I’m just really grateful to everyone who’s helped me get to this point.”