IMPRESSIVE Gold Coast youngster, Daisy D’Arcy & Adelaide’s Abbie Ballard have been recognised for their impressive round two performances by receiving NAB AFLW Rising Star nominations.

D’Arcy was instrumental in the Suns' 33-point win over the West Coast Eagles. The 19-year-old defender showed her composure down back collecting 16 disposals including a game-high nine intercept possessions and laid five tackles.

Growing up, D’Arcy was a talented junior athlete, representing Queensland in cricket, rugby sevens, and soccer. In 2020, D'Arcy chose to pursue a career in AFLW and moved to the Gold Coast to take part in the Suns' academy program.

Daisy D'Arcy in action during the clash between Gold Coast and West Coast in round two, season seven, 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

She was promptly snapped up by Gold Coast at pick No.60 in the 2020 NAB AFLW Draft at only 17 years of age. She became the youngest AFLW player to make their debut when she debuted in round one of the 2021 NAB AFLW season.

D’Arcy enjoyed a promising debut campaign where she played all nine games and finished third in the 2021 Suns' Club Champion award.

20-year-old Adelaide youngster Abbie Ballard was the unlikely match-winner as Adelaide overcame Richmond by nine points.

Abbie Ballard celebrates a goal during round two, season seven, 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

Ballard hadn’t kicked a goal in her previous five AFLW matches before kicking two final-quarter goals to help the Crows win their first game of the season. Ballard also gathered nine possessions and laid four tackles.

The left-footer was recruited from West Adelaide with pick No.34 at the 2021 NAB AFLW Draft after captaining them to the SANFL Women’s Grand Final.

Ballard made her debut for Adelaide in its round three, 2021 victory over the West Coast Eagles.