Kate Shierlaw's journey from delisted Blue to a key member of the St Kilda setup is a feel-good story, with her 2022 season showing how integral she has become.
The key forward's aerial prowess and presence inside 50 elevated the Saints' attacking half on numerous occasions, with her contested marking in particular earning significant praise. Her impact was crucial in terms of scoreboard impact, whether it be through her contested marks (first at the club), score involvements (fourth) or goalkicking (third). Shierlaw closed out her season with a ninth-placed finish in St Kilda’s Best & Fairest count, tied with fellow key forward Caitlin Grieser. As Hannah Priest is set to take the reins as captain for a second consecutive season, Shierlaw will provide support as co-vice-captain alongside Bianca Jakobsson.