AFLW's Grace Baba Becomes First Player Suspended Before Debut After Strike Incident

Grace Baba, a Hawthorn AFLW player, has become the first to be suspended before her debut after striking Richmond's Laura McClelland in a practice match. Baba was handed a one-match suspension for the intentional conduct, medium impact, and body contact. The incident occurred off the ball as Baba and McClelland grappled for position, with Baba striking McClelland in the stomach with her right hand. Baba will be ineligible for selection in Hawthorn's round one clash against Brisbane.

Hawthorn's Grace Baba has made history by becoming the first AFLW player to be suspended before her official debut. The incident occurred during a practice match against Richmond, where Baba struck Richmond's Laura McClelland in the stomach with her right hand. The match review officer graded the action as a strike with intentional conduct, medium impact, and body contact, leading to a one-match suspension [1].

The suspension means Baba will be ineligible for selection in Hawthorn's round one clash against Brisbane on August 17 at Springfield Central Stadium in Ipswich. The incident took place off the ball as Baba and McClelland grappled for position deep inside Hawthorn's forward line. Footage from behind the Hawks' goals appeared to show Baba striking McClelland, who was dropped to her knees by the blow [1].

Despite the suspension, Hawthorn's performance in the practice match was impressive. They posted a 37-point win over Richmond, with captain Emily Bates and Tilly Lucas-Rodd leading the way. Aine McDonagh, last year's leading goal kicker, led the scoring with three goals, while Greta Bodey added two majors. The match saw a strong performance from the midfield trio of Jasmine Fleming, Emily Bates, and Eliza West, who were able to control the game's tempo and create numerous scoring opportunities [2].

Hawthorn's strong performance in the practice match is a confidence boost for the team as they prepare for the 2025 AFLW season. The team will now focus on the upcoming season opener against Brisbane, with the suspension of Baba not expected to significantly impact their lineup. The Hawks have shown resilience and determination in their pre-season matches, and they are primed to make a strong start to the season [3].

References:
[1] https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-05/grace-baba-first-aflw-player-suspended-before-debut/105617050
[2] https://www.hawthornfc.com.au/news/1851738/hawks-forwards-fire-in-37-point-rout-of-tigers
[3] https://www.zerohanger.com/its-such-a-confidence-boost-for-us-hawthorn-primed-for-aflw-opener-166275/