North Melbourne premiership players Emma Kearney and Kate Shierlaw will continue their distinguished playing careers at Arden Street, committing to one-year deals that secure their spots at the club through 2026.

Kearney, one of the most decorated players in the AFLW’s 10-season history, is set to enter her 11th season at the elite level.

The inaugural Kangaroos skipper has played 79 games as a Kangaroo since arriving at Arden Street ahead of the 2019 season.

Her career began with two years at the Western Bulldogs, where she won a league best and fairest medal and a premiership, before going on to feature in both of North Melbourne’s back-to-back flags in 2024 and 2025.

Kearney holds the equal-record for eight All-Australian selections and is currently sitting on 94 career games, putting her on track to bring up her 100-game milestone next season.

Shierlaw will also head into her 11th season in the AFLW. She has played 82 career games, including 38 since moving to Arden Street from St Kilda in 2023.

Having made an instant impact at the club, she has booted 40 goals as a Kangaroo, seeing her sit fifth on North Melbourne’s all-time leading goalkicker tally.

The two-time premiership player demonstrated impressive versatility this season, notably being deployed in defence on multiple occasions.

General manager of women’s football Erin Lorenzini said the club is thrilled to see Kearney and Shierlaw extend their careers at North Melbourne.

"We’re so pleased to see Emma and Kate both go around for another season. They have become such key pillars of our program and are incredibly well-respected among our playing group," Lorenzini said.

"Emma brings invaluable experience and leadership to our squad and remains a figurehead of this club. She’s someone many of our players continue to lean on for guidance, and we’re thrilled she’s decided to play on.

"Kate has also been such a positive influence during a successful period for this team. She’s a selfless player and another respected leader, and she remains incredibly important for us as we continue to build and improve."

The re-signings are announced ahead of the 2025 Telstra AFLW Draft on Monday night, where North Melbourne holds picks 37, 48, 55, 73, and 91.