GIANTS defender Cambridge McCormick has capped off a breakout year with selection in the 2025 All-Australian side. 

Her career-best season saw her named alongside midfielder Zarlie Goldsworthy in the 42-player extended squad, before being recognised for her efforts in the final team at the W Awards in Melbourne on Monday.

It marks McCormick’s first selection into the All-Australian team following a league-leading season in defence from the 26-year-old. 

McCormick averaged 16.6 disposals, 2.9 marks, 1.0 intercept marks, 2.8 spoils and 2.4 rebound 50s per game and led all key defenders across the entire competition for inside 50s, tackles and disposals, while also finishing second in her position for meters gained. 

Originally from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, McCormick played football on the NSW North Coast for Port Macquarie, where the league’s best and fairest medal was named in her honour earlier this year. 

She moved to Eastlake FC in the ACT to chase her AFLW dream in 2021 and was drafted out of the AFL Canberra league ahead of the GIANTS’ 2022 (S7) season. 

Emerging this year as one of the league’s best key defenders, owing to her athleticism and versatility, McCormick has been lauded for her ability to both lockdown forwards, as with her round nine performance on Saints’ star Jesse Wardlaw, as well as bring a critical weapon in transition as a rebounding defender.

GIANTS Executive General Manager of AFLW, Alison Zell, said McCormick’s selection is a just reward for her dominant year.

“We’re immensely proud of the contribution and development that Cambridge has shown this season,” Zell said.

“She’s an incredibly well-loved player and ambassador for the GIANTS and it’s fantastic to see her recognised in this way.

“Cambridge’s game both on-off-field has found another level in 2025, having stepped into a leadership role this year, she’s cemented herself as one of the best defenders in the game as well as an invaluable part of our GIANTS side.

“I extend a significant congratulations to Cambridge for all of her efforts across the season and look forward to her continuing to grow into a star of the AFLW.”