Adelaide defender Kiera Mueller's strong form this season has been rewarded with a Round Seven AFLW Rising Star nomination.

Mueller was a key contributor in the Crows’ 42-point win over the Western Bulldogs at Norwood Oval on Friday night, gathering 12 disposals, taking four marks and using the ball at an impressive 92 per cent efficiency.

The Rising Star nomination caps a break-out campaign for the 20-year-old. 

Mueller entered her second AFLW campaign after playing just five games in Season Seven, but has now featured in all seven of the Crows’ matches in 2023.

Renowned for her skills and composure, the Sturt product has carved out an important role across half-back, averaging 9.9 disposals, 2.3 marks and 151.7 metres gained per game this season.

Her defensive prowess has also been critical for the undefeated Crows in 2023, playing a pivotal role in the competition’s second-best back line (based on points allowed per game), which has given up just 27 points per match.

Mueller is Adelaide’s first Rising Star nominee for the season, and shared the Round Seven honours with Richmond’s Emelia Yassir.