Freckelton inked a deal with the Giants as a free agent during October, after impressing coach Alan McConnell with the Western Wolves in the AFL Sydney competition.

McConnell spoke highly of Freckelton’s skills and indicated she’ll probably play forward in the new season, having watched her work in the ruck while playing for the Wolves.

“Melissa comes from the AFL Sydney competition and has elite speed and great endurance,” McConnell said. 

“She’s a really strong tackler and we think she’s likely to play probably forward and a little bit on-ball.

“We’re looking for her to contribute to keeping the ball in our front half of the ground and give us more opportunities to kick goals.”

Freckelton, 26, spent time at both Canowindra’s Primary Schools, St Edward’s Catholic School and Canowindra Public School, before attending Canowindra High School where she completed her HSC.

She then moved to Sydney and has been playing with Western Wolves Women’s AFL side, based at Picken Oval, Croydon Park, since 2011.

In a post on its Instagram, the Western Wolves spoke about Freckelton’s playing ability and commitment to the club. 

“Freckles [Freckleton] is a leader both on and off the field with her tenacity and fearless style of play, and off the field supporting the development of Wests Juniors AFL youth girls,” the post said. 

“We can’t wait to see her in charcoal and orange.”

The Giants' AFL Women’s side starts pre-season training on November 20.

The side opens their season with an away game on Saturday, February 3 against Melbourne at Casey Fields.

The 2018 season will mark the AFL Women’s competition’s second year after the inaugural seven-week competition in 2017.

Freckelton’s AFL Sydney Best and Fairest polling in recent years