By Williamstown Media
Williamstown has welcomed back a familiar face, with former North Melbourne defender Kallan Dawson returning to the Seagulls for the 2026 VFL season.
Dawson, 27, becomes a headline signing for the Club, returning to the strong standalone VFL program after three seasons on North Melbourne’s AFL list.
Standing at 196cm, Dawson began his AFL career when he was selected by the Kangaroos in the 2022 Mid-Season Draft and went on to play 19 games in that time.
Dawson is a success story of the development pathway across Williamstown.
A product of the Williamstown Junior Football Club, Dawson progressed through the local ranks before joining Williamstown CYMS where he became a premiership player, and then continued to develop his career at Williamstown in the VFL before being drafted to North Melbourne.
In 2021, the star defender claimed the Fearon Medal – the CYMS Senior Men’s Best and fairest award and its most prestigious individual football honour.
He played 12 VFL games in the Gulls guernsey, and is now set to reunite with his former mentor – and current Williamstown coach – Justin Plapp, who he credits for helping launch his VFl and AFL career.
Williamstown GM of Football Operations Ash Collins said Dawson’s return was a major boost for the Club’s 2026 campaign.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Kallan back to Williamstown,” Collins said.
“He’s developed his game enormously during his time at North Melbourne, gaining valuable AFL experience that will be a huge asset to our backline.
“Kallan’s familiarity with our program and connection with Justin Plapp make this a seamless fit. We know he’ll bring leadership, maturity and a competitive edge that will really benefit our playing group.”
Dawson joins former Carlton midfielder-forward David Cuningham as another recent key addition to Williamstown’s building 2026 list.
With Dawson and Cuningham on board and the depth of re-signings the club has announced, the Seagulls’ 2026 team shapes as a balanced and experienced outfit, combining seasoned leadership with emerging talent as the Club prepares for another strong VFL season.
