Williamstown has welcomed back a familiar face, with former North Melbourne defender Kallan Dawson returning to the Seagulls for the next year’s Victorian Football League 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.
Dawson began his AFL career when he was selected by the Kangaroos in the 2022 mid-season draft from the Seagulls and went on to play 19 AFL games.
He was delisted at the end of the 2025 season.
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 before being drafted to North Melbourne.
In 2021, the defender claimed the Fearon Medal – the CYMS senior best and fairest award.
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.
Football operations general manager 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,” he 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.
Former AFL ruck Braydon Preuss has also signed with the Seagulls, adding more AFL experience.
