In just her second season in the competition, 19-year-old star midfielder Alyce Parker has been named in the 2020 AFLW All Australian team. 

Named in the squad for the second season in a row, Parker was listed on the interchange as the final team was announced on Monday evening.

Parker has continued her stellar rise as one of the competition’s best midfielders in 2020.

The NSW product averaged 21 disposals in her seven games (up from 16 in 2019) and has become renowned for her match winning ability via her lethal left boot.

She was ranked first in the competition for metres gained and second for contested possessions. 

Parker was at home on her farm in the Riverina town of Holbrook when coach Alan McConnell video-called to deliver the news.

“I’ve only been here for two seasons but there’s a big difference between the first and the second,” Parker said.

“When you’ve had 12 months’ experience in the program and come back for your second year, you’re much more comfortable and confident. 

“The biggest thing this year was just learning that with the experience I’ve had in my abilities, there’s a huge level of potential within me and with the right people, guidance and learning, I would love to build on that and hopefully one day shape into a better footballer, person and eventually a leader.”

Parker believed it was her preparations back home in Holbrook that set her up for this season, choosing to return home rather than stay in Sydney and play local football.

“I made a promise to myself that if I make the decision to go home for quite some time in the off-season then I want to come back in much better shape and a position to play good football,” she said.

“Leaving Sydney, I leave the football base and the support and development I have around me so to go back home I obviously want to make the most of that opportunity to build on areas I can while I’m away from Sydney.

"Farming is quite physical but I probably wouldn’t put it down to that. I was very strict with the program that our strength and conditioning staff gave me and I made sure I didn’t miss a session.

"I knew no one was watching me … but the only person who would know was me and if I came back to Sydney not in a good shape or a bit underdone it’s obvious I didn’t do the program to the best of my abilities.” 

She also spoke of the support she had around her from her club and teammates.

“I’ve never been part of a team that have put others before them so much,” Parker said.

“It’s such a selfless team, we thrive on each other’s success and we support each other in ways I’ve never seen before or been a part of.  

“I’m forever grateful to be involved in such an amazing group of girls that are good footballers but even better people.”

Along with being named in her first All Australian team, Parker was also named in the inaugural AFL Players' Association's 22 Under 22 team last week.

Her coach paid tribute to her season.

“When the opposition pays you the attention she’s received this year, it presents both a challenge and a great compliment and indicates the esteem she’s held in, not just within our club,” McConnell said.

“Alyce’s development has come both on and off the ground. This year she turned up at the front of the pack in terms of her physical preparation and led the way in her skill level.

“That comes about with a great level of confidence. It hasn’t come easy, working her way through becoming a good player and being a good teammate is a real challenge.

“It’s been a really great year from her and we’re still just scratching the surface of what might be possible. She’s tough, athletic and skilful and that’s a good combination.

“The club is really proud of her, I know her teammates will be really proud of her. I’m certainly very proud of her too.”

Parker follows in the footsteps of captain Alicia Eva, teammates Jessica Dal Pos and Erin McKinnon and former GIANT Courtney Gum in being named All Australian.

The GIANTS will recognise the club’s 2020 AFLW season across the coming weeks.