Eliza McNamara has been ruled out of the upcoming AFLW season after the star midfielder suffered a fractured spine during a gym session.
McNamara lost her footing during a weighted exercise with scans confirming impact to her lumbar spine.
According to AFLW general manager Marcus Wagner, the 20-year old has since undergone surgery and will be sidelined until next season.
"Eliza was completing a programmed exercise in the gym last week as part of her training prep, when she lost her footing while lifting a weighted barbell," Wagner said.
"She unfortunately sustained an injury to her L1 vertebra in the process and was transferred to hospital immediately.
"Thankfully, Eliza's neurology is completely intact. She underwent surgery on Saturday to stabilise the area, which all went to plan, and she is expected to make a full recovery, albeit a lengthy journey."
McNamara was one of Melbourne's best players in this year's AFLW season, helping to steer the Demons to their first grand final where they fell short against Adelaide Crows.
It continued a meteoric rise for McNamara, who earned a Rising Star nominee just seven matches into her debut season.
"It's incredibly unfortunate for Eliza and our team," Wagner said.
"She has had a great couple of months and was preparing to take her game to another level this season.
"Despite the situation, Eliza is in good spirits, which is a reflection of her resilient nature and positive outlook on life.
"These next few months will be a challenge, but our entire playing group, coaches and staff will throw their arms around Eliza and support her and her family every step of the way."
Melbourne will open the new season with a grand final rematch against Adelaide on August 26.
