DESPITE a disappointing end to their year, Fremantle has a mountain of positives to reflect on ahead of next season.
The Dockers spent the first half of the season on the road and showed a real grit while away from home. Going undefeated in Victoria, the side got to work in the hub with little complaint.
This positive attitude was led by new captain Hayley Miller, who has gone from strength to strength both in terms of her own form, and her on-field leadership. Miller is right in the mix for Tuesday's competition best-and-fairest vote count, and has already been named in the 2022 All Australian squad alongside teammates Ebony Antonio and Kiara Bowers.
There have been a number of feel-good stories at the Dockers this season, too.
Ann McMahon made her debut in round one after a severe workplace injury kept her on the sidelines for two years before she was able to reach AFLW level.
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Aine Tighe, signed in the same preseason as McMahon, debuted in round one as well and showed off exactly why Fremantle was so persistent with the Irishwoman.
A genuine utility, Tighe began in the forward line and chopping out in the ruck, but it was a switch to defence against Collingwood in round four that really proved how valuable she is.
Her ability to read the ball, combined with clean hands at ground level makes her dangerous across the field and an exciting prospect for the long term.
In all, Fremantle debuted 11 players this season who played key roles at different times, but vitally will help Trent Cooper and his coaches look toward the future.
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Getting games into new players will prove important with season seven just around the corner.