2025 MacInnes Medallist – Mia Cowan

“I would say this has been my best season so far. It’s probably been my most consistent, and the year I’ve enjoyed the most.”

Season 2025 was near perfect for Old Scotch star Mia Cowan, who excelled for the Big V, claimed her second straight Premier Women’s premiership with the Stars, and took home the club’s first Shona MacInnes Medal as the best player in the competition.

Mia polled votes in 8 of her 15 matches, with her 22 votes including 7 best-on-ground performances, three of which occurred in a four-game stretch from Rounds 10 to 13.

She finished 7 votes ahead of a three-way tie for second place between her Old Scotch teammate Katie Hunter-Scott, Kew’s Lauralee Rinaldi, and St Kevin’s leading goalkicker, Hannah Smith. 

The 23-year-old, who has headed overseas for some well-earned end-of-season rest and relaxation, is still coming to terms with the significance of the honour.

“It is truly special, and I probably haven’t had enough time yet to really understand the weight of such a prestigious award,” said Mia.

“But regardless, I am overwhelmed and grateful that I’ve been chosen to be the recipient of the Shona MacInnes Medal.”

Mia’s love of footy comes from her family, who have always been passionate about the game.

“My family were avid Richmond supporters, so naturally I succumbed to supporting the yellow and black. But in Grade 1, my teacher told me that Richmond was a bad team and that I should barrack for Geelong instead – so I did! I always watched and admired Tom Hawkins and Tom Stewart, loving the way they played.”

Mia’s own football journey began at East Malvern.

“I think it was my Dad who first got me into playing at the Knights. I was really young at the time, but given how important the club was to me and how much they continue to pave the way for women’s football, I’d like to mention both Troy Moloney and James Sutherland. Both have shaped the footballer I am today.”

Mia progressed through the junior ranks before joining Old Scotch and first experiencing senior footy as a 16-year-old in 2019. 

Her NAB League experience with Oakleigh Chargers was cut short by COVID after just a couple of games in 2020, but she gained exposure to higher-level footy through VFLW stints at North Melbourne (2 games in 2021), Carlton (19 games in 2022-23), and the Western Bulldogs (3 games in 2024).

In 2025, Mia committed herself completely to Old Scotch, and it certainly paid dividends.

“It was a massive difference, and on a multitude of levels. I was fortunate enough to step into a leadership role, which was a new experience for me. It forced me to branch out of my comfort zone to help and support those around me – something I would naturally do anyway, but in this role, it needed to be in a more extroverted way.

“Secondly – and it was probably something I took for granted while playing VFL – the continuity of being able to train and play with the same people really helped.

“Our team was vastly different to the team we had in 2024. We lost some really talented players to the VFL, including our previous best-and-fairest winner Mia Caffry.

“All of these changes inevitably changed the team dynamic, but with such huge support from our coaching staff, there was a notable improvement. We became less reliant on certain players – the individual improvement as a collective has been remarkable, and truly a pleasure to watch. Our ball movement became a pivotal aspect to winning games this year. 

“It was so much fun playing a full season at Scotch, playing alongside some of my best friends. We’re a group of best friends. We all hang out all the time and just enjoy each other’s company, which makes it super easy to play.”

Her two-time premiership coach, Dean Anderson, is glowing in his praise.

“Mia has thrived in our program. She is very much a leader when it comes to hard work, building relationships and setting high standards. Mia is often seen doing more work after training and away from the club.

“Our environment has enabled Mia to flourish, rediscovering a real passion for the game and all it offers. Mia is very coachable, which is a dream for any coach, and she is very comfortable sharing her feedback to help us improve.

“Mia has strong self-belief, and her ability to play through – and consistently perform against – hard tags is an example of her determination and class.

“From what I saw this year, Mia at the top of her game was the best in the competition. We are lucky to have her within our group.”

As good as her 2025 was, Mia remains focused on continuous improvement.

“I would say this has been my best season so far. It’s probably been my most consistent, and the year I’ve enjoyed the most.

“I don’t really know how to describe myself as a footballer, but I do think my strengths include my craftiness around stoppage and goals, my field kicking and quick hands,” she said.

“Something I’m always trying to improve on is my conditioning and aerobic abilities in the hope that I can become a damaging and dynamic mid/forward player. Another notable improvement would be my set shot kicking – this is something that I will be focusing on come next season. 

“Honestly, my footy ambitions are just to keep playing fun and competitive football. On an individual level, I would love to continue to improve in the areas I mentioned earlier.

“I’ve also really enjoyed adding the leadership aspect to my football, and this is something I hope I can continue to be a part of. And in terms of the team, I think it’ll really be about continuing to develop further and create more depth within the side.

“As it currently stands, I can’t imagine myself playing anywhere but Old Scotch next year, so I really just want the best for the club.”

Away from footy, Mia is nearly finished her university studies and is turning her attention to life’s next chapter.

“I am currently studying a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at Deakin. I have one more trimester to go, which I am excited about. I work doing admin – and will soon start doing some PT and Strength & Conditioning work at a physiotherapy and fitness studio in Hawthorn called Evado Studios. 

“I also do a bit of work with AFL Victoria, helping with their Auskick, SuperKick and AFL 9’s programs.”

Given 2025 has been such a hectic year, Mia is deeply thankful for all the support she’s received along the way.

“I did forget to thank a few people on the night of the VAFA Awards, so I appreciate the chance to be asked  this question again!

“Firstly, my family and friends, particularly mum and dad and one of my brothers, Dylan – my greatest supporters. Thank you for continuing to support my journey. I know I probably don’t express my gratitude and appreciation enough, but thank you. 

“To the club – Will Strange and Andrew Toop, who do a lot of behind-the-scenes work to help run the show at Old Scotch. To the coaches who bend over backwards for us – JP, Lloydy, Dave, Monty senior and Jnr, and of course, Dean. 

“Dean, you continue to be such an amazing role model to the group, and I feel so lucky and fortunate to have been coached by someone held in such high regard across the AFL program. 

“I was also lucky enough to be led by one of my closest friends, Katie Hunter-Scott, who is one of the most caring and kind leaders. She taught me a lot about what being a good leader is. She had such an incredible season, winning the club’s best and fairest, coming second in the league, and being the captain of a premiership side. 

“Last but definitely not least, Ian Hill, who started the women’s program at Scotch and doesn’t miss a beat. He made a women’s team from nothing and does so much work behind the scenes, and doesn’t get much recognition for it. He means a lot to every single girl at the club and is definitely our biggest supporter. I can’t even explain how much he has done for us, but I am so thankful for him!”

Successful football programs are built on character as much as talent, and it’s clear that Old Scotch, with their recent success in both their women’s and men’s programs, has hit upon the right blend of quality people on and off the field.

Their women’s team will focus on securing a premiership hat-trick in 2026, with Mia Cowan once again central to their campaign.

The VAFA congratulates Mia on winning the Shona MacInnes Medal and wishes her and her team all the best for another premiership defence in 2026.