Lively Hawthorn forward Aileen Gilroy has put pen to paper on a one-year deal to re-sign with the Club ahead of the 2026 season.

An inaugural Hawk and the Club’s first Irish AFLW signing, Gilroy has been a strong contributor to the brown and gold across her four seasons and 42 games to date.

Gilroy played every possible game for Hawthorn through her first three seasons, including a career-best year in 2024 and a maiden All-Australian blazer, before a hamstring injury hampered her start to the 2025 season.

The 32-year-old returned to the line-up in Round 6, averaging 13.8 disposals and 3.6 tackles for the year.

Hawthorn General Manager of AFLW Keegan Brooksby said the Club was happy to see Gilroy put pen to paper.

“We’re excited to have Aileen commit to the club for another year, to retain a player of her calibre and experience is invaluable,” Brooksby said.

“Aileen is known for her ferocity and determination on field, but she also shows great heart and character off field as well.

“2025 was an injury-interrupted year for Aileen but we’re confident she can get back to her best in 2026, which is both a dangerous and exciting prospect.”