Colin Riordan's team lost by 91-41 at the North Sydney Oval.

In new territory in Division Two, Mayo just missed out on promotion, while they put in a positive performance in defeat to Galway in the Connacht final.

It is another season where huge numbers of ladies' footballers will be playing in the AFLW, with 44 Irish players currently on squad lists for the 2026 season – up from 39 last year.

Mackin has been playing for Melbourne Rebels, alongside her sister Blaithain, since 2023.

She has been described as a “wonderful role model”

Cavan are now back in the second-tier following their relegation from the All-Ireland senior championship two years ago, and the now 28-year-old Sheridan will be a big part of their bid to reclaim the Mary Quinn Memorial Cup.