VFLW Bulldog Nicole McMahon has been upgraded to a train-on player for the 2020 AFLW season, following the news Aisling Utri will sit out this year to focus on her hockey career.

A familiar face around the club already, the basketball convert has spent the past few years playing for the VFLW Bulldogs, establishing herself as one of the competition’s dominant rucks.

Her efforts last year, which included averaging 24 hit-outs across 10 matches, saw her finish runner-up in the club’s best and fairest. 

As per official AFLW ruling, McMahon will only be able to be selected to play if the Bulldogs have less than 23 available players, but is still as excited as ever about the opportunity. 

“I was actually a bit shocked at first because I had told Debbie (Lee) I was considering not playing this year - but when someone like Debbie Lee comes to you with the chance to train alongside the AFLW girls you can’t really say no,” said McMahon. 

“I’m probably most excited to spend more time with people I already know and care about – I played with a lot of the girls last year in the VFLW, so I already feel like I’m part of the family. 

“To continue being part of that means a lot.” 

AFLW list manager Michael Sandry was pleased to offer McMahon the opportunity. 

“Nicole has shown rapid improvement after crossing from basketball a couple of years ago, and has proven she can mix it with current AFLW rucks,” Sandry said. 

“Her ability to use her height and strength to impose herself on the contest is a huge asset.” 

The AFLW Bulldogs will host their first home game of the season when they meet Melbourne on Friday night at VU Whitten Oval, following an opening round win against St Kilda away.