Inaugural West Coast Eagles captain Emma Swanson will remain at the helm for her sixth-straight season, voted by her teammates to continue to lead the side for 2024.

The star midfielder has been a constant pillar of leadership, experience and stability for a young and developing Eagles side, her character and work ethic a true inspiration for her teammates.

Bella Lewis, one of West Coast’s most highly decorated talents, will continue as vice-captain for a second season, joined by reigning Club Champion Charlie Thomas as co-vice-captain.

After an outstanding 2023 season, Thomas made history as the first AFLW Eagle to be selected into the All-Australian team.

The 20-year-old shows skill, maturity and footy smarts well beyond her years, making a name for herself as one of the best up-and-coming defenders and leaders in the competition.

Swanson, Lewis and Thomas will be supported in the leadership group by experienced utility Jess Hosking and versatile midfielder Matilda Sergeant, a testament to the impact the pair have had on the group since their recruitment in December.

Hosking has played 53 games at the elite level, joining West Coast after spending time at both Carlton and Richmond, and has had a positive influence on her new teammates, both on and off the field.   

Sergeant unfortunately suffered an ACL rupture earlier in the year and will be sidelined for the upcoming season, but the former Fremantle Docker has been recognised by her peers for her ongoing guidance and positive attitude.

Eagles’ senior coach Daisy Pearce said the team is in good hands with this group of leaders.

“I’m really looking forward to working closely with captain ‘Swanny’ (Emma Swanson), she drives elite standards, she’s a reliable and consistent competitor and has an incredible passion for the team,” Pearce said.

“She models what it looks like to constantly push yourself to improve season upon season.

“Bella is an impressive competitor with an excellent ability to connect with her teammates, she cares deeply for the team, and she will be complemented by the inclusion of new co-vice-captain Charlie Thomas.

“Charlie is a natural leader with an amazing ability to go after her own development and performance with excellence and composure, while being able to look at the bigger picture and help others around her.

“Her elevation into the vice-captain role at just 20 years of age is a huge testament to her character, and she will continue to grow and develop as a leader with the support of Bella and ‘Swanny’ by her side.

“Hosko’ (Jess Hosking) and ‘Tildi’ (Matilda Sergeant) are fantastic inclusions into the group, both bringing excellent leadership qualities to the table.

“Hosko’ has done an incredible job of connecting with the team, and the broader club since her arrival, while also bringing experience and maturity to the track and bringing the best out in people around her.

“Tildi’ is a quiet achiever, and while she may be in the unfortunate position with her ACL rehab, she has a big influence in driving high standards and belonging within the group.”