Emily Bates to Hawthorn, the league’s best and fairest winner, players poached from the Brisbane Lions, last

The AFLW’s priority signing phase has resulted in another major coup when Hawthorn landed Brisbane’s former league best and fairest Emily Bates.

It follows Sydney’s poaching of Collingwood fighter Chloe Molloy as the extra bonuses given to the latest expansion clubs, including Essendon and Port Adelaide, continue to weigh on founding teams.

Season 7 All-Australia Lion Greta Bodey will join Bates at the Hawks, while teammate Cathy Svarc is also being closely followed by Waverley Park Club, News Corp. reports.

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However, Bates is the top prize, with the Gun Ball winner being a Premiership player and three-time All-Australian and Best and Fairest Winner.

The Lions are also reportedly set to lose striker Jesse Wardlaw, with St Kilda their most likely destination.

Meanwhile, Port Adelaide have poached Ash Woodland, season six’s leading scorer and Premiership player of 2022, from rivals Adelaide.

“Emily was our very first draft pick and since her arrival has gone on to become one of the most successful players in the history of the competition,” said Bree Brock, Lions women’s general manager.

“Greta joined us from football after playing just a handful of Aussie Rules games and becoming a star of the competition.”

“At this point we understand that Emily and Greta will be looking for a fresh start at another AFLW club.”

“Both are highly decorated players and we look forward to working with the AFL to secure appropriate compensation.”