Week 19 VAFA Women’s Rising Star: Shalyn Phillips

The VAFA congratulates Shalyn Phillips from Old Haileybury, who has been nominated as the Round 17 VAFA Women’s Rising Star.

Shalyn has been a consistent standout this season, featuring among the best players in 11 of her 16 games, before producing a best-on-ground performance in Old Haileybury’s Semi-Final victory.

What the club said:

Shalyn Phillips arrived at Old Haileybury in 2025 straight out of school, having previously establishing herself as a dominant player at APS level. A natural athlete with an exceptional fitness base, Shalyn runs all day and thrives on the challenge of outworking and outrunning her opponent.

Playing predominantly as an inside midfielder, Shalyn has no hesitation in putting her body on the line. You’ll regularly find her at the bottom of the pack, winning the contested ball and doing the hard work that allows her teammates to shine. Her competitiveness, work rate and team-first mentality have quickly made her one of the standout young players in the competition.

Coach quote:

“Shay is naturally competitive and loves the contest. Her work ethic is second to none, and she is always the first to accept any challenge put forward to her. She is the ultimate team player and has earned the respect of her teammates through her team-first attitude. She would be one of the first players picked by any coach.”