Promising young Roo Claire Mahony is set to make her AFLW debut in North Melbourne's 2026 season-opener against the Geelong Cats at Marvel Stadium.

The 19-year-old joined the club ahead of last season, after the Kangaroos selected her with pick No.36 in the 2024 AFLW Draft.

The Beaufort product, from Victoria’s Goldfields region, initially built a strong reputation with the GWV Rebels for her marking ability and forward craft.

Mahony has been a standout throughout this pre-season, adapting impressively to a dynamic new role as a rebounding defender and delivering strong performances across the Roos’ practice matches and match sims.

General manager of women’s football Erin Lorenzini said the club was thrilled to see Mahony get her opportunity.

"Claire has worked extremely hard this pre-season and has more than earned her spot in our Round 1 side," Lorenzini said.

"Her commitment to driving her own standards and embracing our team’s values since arriving at the club has held her in great stead, earning genuine respect from the entire playing group.

"She has taken to her role in our defence with real drive and versatility, and the coaching staff have been thoroughly impressed with how she’s applied herself. We just want her to go out, enjoy the moment, and play her role."

The Roos kick off their 2026 campaign against Geelong this Saturday at 1pm, before the Kangaroos' AFL team takes on Geelong in their Round 23 match at 3.45pm.

The AFLW Kangaroos will unfurl their 2025 premiership flag following their game.