AFL.COM.AU'S iconic photo of AFLW star Tayla Harris has been named the winner of a new women's sports photo award. 

The image of Harris kicking at goal with her trademark action, taken by Victorian AFLW senior photographer Michael Willson, won the professional category in the inaugural Women in Sport Photo Action Awards - #WISPAA. 

The photo, which became an influential image for change after being denigrated by online trolls, was described by #WISPAA creator and judge Louise Evans as a standout. 

"This image was chosen as the professional winner of the inaugural WISPAA Women in Sport Photo Action Awards because it perfectly captures the essence of women in sport performing at the highest level," said Evans, who is also the Communications Director for peak advocacy body Women Sport Australia. 

"It takes you into the mindset of AFLW player Tayla Harris and on a journey of skill, athleticism, power and determination. It captures that sweet moment in sport when everything falls into place, when amid all the drama and noise an athlete executes the perfect play. It's beautiful, inspirational and a memorable winner."

Harris took a stand against online trolls after host AFL broadcaster Seven Network initially pulled down the image in response to the post attracting offensive comments.

GOING VIRAL Harris image heads around the world

Community outrage ensured the photo was reinstated and went viral as fans splashed it across homemade T-shirts and the women's league embraced it as an unofficial logo.

Willson will receive economy return flights, five nights' accommodation and photo media accreditation to attend the IAAF World Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar, 27 September – 6 October, 2019. He will also receive a $A5,000 Nikon e-store voucher to spend on Nikon products.