AFLW players Melissa Hickey, Katie Brennan prepare for Brownlow night after VFL grand final

WOMEN’S footy stars Melissa Hickey and Katie Brennan will continue smashing stereotypes in style on Brownlow night — but not before playing in their VFL grand final this weekend.

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AFLW players Melissa Hickey and Katie Brennan will continue smashing stereotypes in style on Brownlow night.

Having already made history for equality and diversity in the inaugural AFLW season, Melbourne defender Hickey, who is attending her second Brownlow on Monday night, says the women’s league has proven its place at the Brownlow table.

“It’s actually nicer to be invited to attend the Brownlow this year, because it proves we weren’t just token the first time; we feel like we are legitimising that we aren’t just a novelty, we have a place,” she said.

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Western Bulldogs skipper Katie Brennan and Melbourne Demons defender Mel Hickey in Jason Grech dresses and Temelli Jewellery ahead of Brownlow night. Picture: Alex Coppel

“The focus on women at the Brownlow is no longer about their dresses and what they are wearing, we are there as footballers but we can also dress up and look glamorous and show another side of ourselves,” she said.

Bulldogs star Brennan, who was recently awarded the VFL Women’s best and fairest, said it’s exciting to see more women attending the Brownlow on their football merit.

“We had our own W Awards which was dedicated to our league but I think it’s important that we are still integrated and that some of the top AFLW players can attend the Brownlow. This year some of the girls are presenting awards and we feel a part of it, its not just like we play our season and that’s it,” she said.

Katie Brennan in action for the Allies during the AFL Women's State of Origin match this month. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Mel Hickey celebrates a goal during the inaugural AFLW season. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

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The footballers, who also both play for Darebin Falcons in the VFL Women’s, won’t have a relaxing lead up to footy’s big night however, playing in the grand final on Sunday at Etihad Stadium against rivals Diamond Creek.

The women, who have both been public supporters of marriage equality on social media, also said the AFL’s stance for a Yes vote was heartening.

“It makes you really proud that the major sporting organisation in Australia is standing up for equality and they are genuine about it,” said Brennan.

“Women’s footy has always been so amazingly inclusive and it’s been a place where people who have maybe felt lost in their lives can come and feel like they belong and feel like they are not the minority,” said Hickey.