St Kilda’s backline was put through its paces last season, but Jayde Van Dyk never threw in the towel.
The versatile defender, who again assumed lockdown and intercepting roles, was again a regular in the Saints’ defensive setup, missing just one game in 2022 after being managed. While many AFLW players juggle a great deal in-between their professional and footballing lives, Van Dyk is arguably one of the hardest working players, spending her early mornings working as a carpenter before completing her AFLW commitments in the late evenings. Van Dyk’s dedication to both professions was formally recognised at the end of last season, being awarded the club’s AFLW Personal Excellence Dual Career Award. Van Dyk holds a decorated football resumé, with VFLW premiership honours, Best & Fairest distinctions and the Debbie Lee Medal making up her silverware cabinet.
