West Coast Eagles young gun Ella Roberts has cemented her status as one of the AFLW's premier talents, creating club history by securing her second straight club champion award.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
At just 20 years of age, Ella Roberts has become the youngest player ever to win consecutive best and fairest honours for the West Coast Eagles, surpassing the previous record held by club great Glen Jakovich. Roberts polled a commanding 144 votes to hold off a strong challenge from co-captain Charlie Thomas, who finished runner-up for the second year in a row with 134 votes.
This remarkable back-to-back victory places Roberts in elite company, making her only the second Eagles AFLW player to achieve the double after former captain Emma Swanson did so in 2022. Her stellar 2025 season was characterised by career-best numbers across the board, including averages of 23.8 disposals, 7.3 tackles, and 4.8 score involvements per game.
Coach's Praise and Team Recognition
Eagles coach Daisy Pearce was effusive in her praise for the rising star, highlighting Roberts' unique football instincts and growing leadership. "Ella is an incredible footballer. Her natural instincts for the game are like nothing I've seen," Pearce said. She also noted Roberts' competitive drive, stating the young star entered her exit meeting hungry to improve despite the outstanding individual season.
The club champion count also recognised several other key performers. Ruck Lauren Wakfer's breakout campaign earned her third place with 124 votes, followed closely by defender Georgie Cleaver (118). Bella Lewis and Jess Rentsch tied for fifth on 111 votes each.
Other Award Winners and a Fond Farewell
The night also celebrated other contributors across the squad. Co-captain Charlie Thomas, who finished third in the league for intercept possessions, was honoured with the best club person award. Exciting young forward Lucia Painter, who kicked 10 goals in her debut season, received the emerging talent award.
Teammates voted Jess Rentsch as the club's trademark player, recognising her consistent effort and team-first attitude. The event also served as a fitting send-off for retiring midfielder Dana Hooker, who played 45 games for the Eagles after crossing from Fremantle and was a 2020 club champion and two-time All-Australian.
The full top ten for the West Coast Eagles AFLW Club Champion award was:
- 1. Ella Roberts — 144 votes
- 2. Charlie Thomas — 134 votes
- 3. Lauren Wakfer — 124 votes
- 4. Georgie Cleaver — 118 votes
- 5. Bella Lewis — 111 votes
- 5. Jess Rentsch — 111 votes
- 7. Jaide Britton — 110 votes
- 8. Emma Swanson — 104 votes
- 9. Zoe Wakfer — 101 votes
- 10. Lucia Painter — 99 votes
Roberts' club champion award caps an extraordinary period of personal accolades, coming soon after she earned her second straight All-Australian selection, finished fourth in the league's MVP voting, and was named captain of the AFLPA's 22Under22 team. The football world now eagerly watches to see what new heights this phenomenal young Eagle will reach next.
