West Coast have confirmed that co-captains Charlie Thomas and Bella Lewis will again lead the AFLW side in 2026, with Emma Swanson returning to a formal leadership role. The decision comes after Thomas and Lewis guided the Eagles to their first finals appearance in 2025 during their inaugural season as co-captains.
Mikayla Western will continue as vice-captain as the club looks to build on last year's success under coach Daisy Pearce, who is entering her third season. Pearce praised the duo's complementary leadership styles and their ability to inspire a young and developing group.
Swanson, who stepped down last year to focus on family, will join the extended leadership group alongside Lauren Wakfer and Jaide Britton. Pearce highlighted Swanson's elite standards and training ethic as key assets for the team.
Wakfer, a 22-year-old ruck, earned her place after finishing third in the club's best-and-fairest count behind Ella Roberts and Thomas. Pearce noted her significant growth and increasing confidence on the field.
