THE AFLW Fans’ ‘Most Improved’ Player, a member of the AFLPA 22under22 team and second-place finish on the podium at Carlton’s AFLW Best and Fairest.

If Abbie McKay’s breakout season seven was ever in doubt, last Friday night quashed any uncertainty.

McKay averaged 20.7 disposals, 11.6 contested possessions, 4.8 clearances and 7.4 tackles in season seven, finishing the evening just two votes behind eventual Best and Fairest winner and midfield partner, Mimi Hill.

In her fifth season of AFLW - despite being just 22 years of age - McKay saw an opportunity to step up within a young midfield group and grabbed it with both hands.

“The midfield group is only growing from here, I think I’m one of the oldest and I’m only 22 so we’re only going up from here,” McKay said.

“I’ve loved working with 'Mim' and alongside all the other midfielders so I’m so happy for everyone that we’re all getting better each game – I can actually see genuine improvement from each player in the team so it’s only looking up from here.”

On an individual note, McKay credited her own improvement to finding consistency in her game.

“I think consistency is a huge thing across a season and our season is only short, but I still think consistency is so important,” she said.

“I think at the start of the season I said that consistency was what I wanted to improve on – not having an amazing standout game and then being a nobody in another game. That was what my goal was - to be more consistent - and I think I’ve been able to do that.

“There have been a few ups and downs as there always is, but I think consistency was probably what I improved most on.”

From her teammates and coaches, to everyone who has shown support for the Game Changers, McKay was quick to acknowledge the broader Carlton network.

“The wider community of Carlton, we love all your support and it doesn’t go unnoticed – especially as a women’s program, every contribution from everyone is amazing.”

And the last person left to thank?

“Thanks to Dad for some good genes.”