WITH the finals race now down to eight teams, we take a look at each club's most influential player heading into November. 

From X-factor forwards to classy midfielders, these are the players to watch throughout the AFLW finals series. 

Georgie Prespakis (Geelong)

One of the most recognisable players in the competition, Prespakis' skills are just as unique as her long sleeves and bright blonde hair. Long-range handballs, electric run and carry and expert delivery to Geelong’s key forwards make her one of the competition's most damaging midfielders. Averaging eight clearances and score involvements per game, Prespakis is sure to provide plenty of highlights come November.

Erone Fitzpatrick (Carlton)

Fitzpatrick is lightning quick and has an incredible work rate, often making something out of nothing in the Blues’ forward line. The Irishwoman is known for her repeat efforts, wearing down her opponents before punishing them on the scoreboard. Teams work hard to limit her impact, but Fitzpatrick’s combination of speed, endurance, determination and flair makes her one of the hardest players in the competition to contain.

Havana Harris (Gold Coast)

Harris is a triple threat. The 182cm key forward is strong overhead, competes at ground level and is damaging in front of goal. The young Sun has kicked 19 goals this season, while averaging four marks and 14 disposals per game. Harris’ height, strength and mobility make her the key target for the Suns when they venture inside 50.

Eilish Sheerin (North Melbourne)

Sheerin is a powerful midfielder made for finals. The 34-year-old was named best on ground in last year’s grand final after collecting 28 disposals, kicking two goals and laying 11 tackles. The former Tiger can turn a match on its head with her strength and competitiveness, complementing the star power of North Melbourne midfielders Ash Riddell and Jasmine Garner.

Sarah Hartwig (Western Bulldogs)

A medium-sized forward who often flies under the radar, ‘Twiggy’ is a low-disposal, high-impact player. Hartwig is having a career-best year and currently leads the Bulldogs’ goalkicking with 14 majors in 2026. A heart-and-soul player, Hartwig is an important cog in the Bulldogs’ forward line, with her strong marking ability and high football IQ key to her side’s ability to score.

Chloe Molloy (Sydney)

Literally the definition of X-factor, this Sydney forward can do it all. Strong in the air and evasive when the ball hits the deck, Molloy is arguably the smartest forward in the competition. The 27-year-old kicked 28 goals this year, the most in a single season in the competition’s history. Molloy will be looking to add to her tally come finals time.

Tyla Hanks (Melbourne)

Calm, composed and skilful, Hanks is a footballer’s footballer. One of the best kicks in the game, she is the player you want hitting you lace out on a lead inside 50. The 26-year-old has also booted a career-high nine goals this season, and the Demons’ vice-captain is key to Melbourne’s finals chances.

Lucy Wales (Hawthorn)

The AFLW’s in-form ruck, Wales has been a standout this season. The 23-year-old has been remarkably consistent across all 12 rounds, averaging 20 hit-outs, 18 disposals, four marks and four tackles, highlighting her ability to impact the game post-ruck contest. Wales is firmly in contention for her first All-Australian after a stellar 2026 campaign.