Port Adelaide defenders Ebony O’Dea, Indy Tahau and Alex Ballard have penned fresh contract extensions, which will see them remain at Alberton until the end of 2024.  

O’Dea and Tahau took to the field for every game in Season 7, while Ballard only missed Round 10, due to concussion protocols. 

As a home-grown South Australian, O’Dea has flourished since arriving at Alberton, joining the Power after playing 21 games with Collingwood over three seasons. 

The tenacious defender never shies away from a contest and was voted by her peers as the players’ player last season.  

O’Dea approaches her game with a tough, selfless style of football that captured the hearts of fans from early on. 

The 24-year-old made a stunning recovery from a collapsed lung in pre-season, returning to play Round 1 just three weeks later. 

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O'Dea leaps backwards for MOTY contender | PTV

Ebony O'Dea jumps back with the flight to claim a ripping mark.

Tahau joined Port Adelaide after playing 19 AFLW games for Brisbane, including a Premiership win in 2021. 

She earned a Rising Star nomination in Round 10, with her height, strength and natural football talent all making her a fierce force in the backline. 

The 20-year-old averaged 10 disposals across Season 7 and led the Rising Star pool for intercept possessions, averaging 6.8.  

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Super Tahau soccer goal gives Port a sniff | PTV

Indy Tahau makes it three Port goals in quick succession after this incredible goal midway through the fourth term.

Ballard joined Port Adelaide as an open-age signing from SANFLW club Sturt, after being overlooked in her AFLW Draft year.  

The reliable defender was named in the AFL Players’ Association AFLW 22Under22 team from Season 7, as voted by fans. 

She averaged 6.8 intercept possessions and took a total of 29 marks, topping the team leaderboard alongside vice-captain Ange Foley. 

The 20-year-old was a consistent on-field contributor, averaging 11.8 disposals from her nine matches. 

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Ballard clunks another strong mark against the Hawks | PTV

Alex Ballard continues her domination in the backline with a strong grab.

List manager Naomi Maidment is excited to lock the trio in for two more years. 

“Ebony, Indy and Alex are excellent players and people, and we couldn’t be happier to see them in black, white and teal again,” Maidment said. 

“Ebony is such a hard worker and always shows up for her teammates. Her energy is unmatched, and we love watching her no-fear, tough style of play.  

“It’s hard to believe Indy is only 20 years old considering how much she has already achieved in AFLW. She is full of talent and brings outstanding defensive skill to our backline. 

“Alex has grown so much since joining our program and has demonstrated her strong hands and ability to read the play in the backline.  

“They are all important members of our playing group and are committed to consistent growth and improvement.” 

The AFLW sign and trade period will close on Monday, March 20 at 5pm AEDT.