The 20-year-old, who hails from Geelong and was linked to the club by Foxfooty.com.au, opted to remain at Melbourne.

AFLW talent manager Todd Patterson said the club was rapt to have Mithen remain in the red and blue.

“We are over the moon with the news that Lily will re-sign when the signing period opens,” he told Melbourne Media.

“She is a fantastic character to have around our club and one of the up and coming midfielders in the competition.”