Ava Usher’s prolific debut AFLW season has reached a new milestone with the 19-year-old earning the Round 9 Telstra Rising Star nomination.
Selected with Pick 4 in the 2025 Telstra AFLW Draft, the Burleigh Bombers product and StreetSmarts SUNS Academy graduate has adapted seamlessly to the elite level and played a pivotal role in Saturday’s breakthrough win against the Melbourne Demons.
Usher injected the match with her trademark speed and flair, slotting the opening goal on the run before finishing with two majors to go with 16 disposals and seven score involvements.
The nomination sees 2026 become the first season in which the SUNS have earned three AFLW Rising Star nominations with Usher joining Alannah Welsh (Round 2) and Dekota Baron (Round 7).
“We’re incredibly proud to see Ava earn the Rising Star nomination,” GC SUNS General Manager of Women’s Football Erin Phillips said.
“She is an exciting young talent, but what stands out most is the work she's put in to get here. After more than 1000 days on the sidelines through injury, this recognition is a testament to her resilience and determination.
“Ava has had made an immediate impact in her debut season and we can’t wait to see her continue developing at the SUNS. She has a bright future ahead of her and this is just the beginning.”
2026 Telstra AFLW Rising Star nominees:
R1: Sierra Grieves (Richmond)
R2: Alannah Welsh (Gold Coast SUNS)
R3: Lauren Young (Port Adelaide)
R4: Jordyn Allen (Melbourne)
R5: Jade McLay (St Kilda)
R6: Olivia Wolmarans (Richmond)
R7: Dekota Baron (Gold Coast SUNS)
R8: Ashley Centra (Collingwood)
R9: Ava Usher (Gold Coast SUNS)
Don’t miss Ava’s season. The SUNS return to People First Stadium in Round 11. Tickets from 15, kids go free*.
