The Brisbane Lions have secured Kate McCarthy, Sam Virgo and Nicole Hildebrand for AFLW 2018.

McCarthy a jet-heeled midfielder, made a name for herself across the country when she pulled off arguably one of the goals of the AFLW season — a five bounce sensation from the centre of the ground against Collingwood in Round 3.

Her season included selection in the AFL Women’s inaugural All Australian team as well as taking home the Members’ MVP Award at the Lions Women’s Best and Fairest Awards in April.

24-year-old McCarthy,  the first athlete to play football with a pacemaker, was relatively new to AFL, having represented Australia for touch footy before making the code switch a couple of years ago.

“Kate had a phenomenal year,” said Brisbane Lions Women’s CEO Breeanna Brock.

“We’re really pleased she has recommitted to the Club.”

Virgo, recruited from Yeronga in the QWAFL, was also selected in the AFL Women’s All Australian team at the AFLW Awards in March.

The 30-year-old, consistently one of the Lions’ best, was nominated by her peers as a ‘Values Leader’ in the Lions’ inaugural Leadership Group.

She received the ‘All for One’ award at the Lions’ AFL Women’s Best and Fairest awards for best representing the Club’s core values.

“Sam is a terrific leader on and off the field.” said Brock.

“It’s fantastic that she has re-signed with the Club.”

Hildebrand was recruited from Melbourne University.

She is one of the Lions’ most experienced players and a key cog in coach Craig Starcevich’s backline.

“Nicole is really important to our backline,” said Brock.

“We’re really excited that she has re-signed with the Club.”