Two-time All-Australian Meghan McDonald is set to captain Geelong for a fifth season, with the Cats confirming their six-player leadership group for the 2024 NAB AFLW Season.
Becky Webster, who joined the Cats’ leadership group in 2022 Season 7, has been elevated to co-vice-captain, alongside Nina Morrison, who has been vice-captain since 2022 Season 6.
An emerging leader, Webster excelled in her move to half-back in 2023, averaging career highs in disposals (17.9) and meters gained (291m) per game.
Three-time Geelong Cats AFLW Best and Fairest winner Amy McDonald has been added to the player leadership group for the first time, while Chantel Emonson and Mikayla Bowen round out the leadership group.
McDonald, who was equal runner-up in the league Best and Fairest last season, has played 49 games since debuting in 2020, rapidly ascending to become one of the pre-eminent onballers in the league, despite coming from a nontraditional pathway to football.
The 26-year-old earned All-Australian selection in 2022 Season 7 and is also a two-time winner of the Geelong’s AFLW Fan MVP award.
Geelong Cats Assistant General Manager of Football Brett Johnson said:
"We’re incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated leadership team that collaborates closely with our football department to develop and enhance our AFLW program and culture.
"Meg has been an outstanding captain over the past four seasons leading into 2024, with strong support from Nina and the entire leadership group. Becky's elevation to co-vice-captain underscores her professionalism and influence both on and off the field.
"Amy's inclusion reflects her growth as a leader and her impact on the team over several seasons. Our leaders are continuously setting new benchmarks for success, and we look forward to their continued contributions throughout 2024."
Captain Meghan McDonald said:
“I look at Nina, Becky, Chantel, Mikayla, and Amy and see a group of people whose desire to get the most out of themselves and their teammates has never been higher. Every year it’s a joy to watch as they grow as players and as people, enhancing their leadership and deepening the impact they have on our team.
“I’m sure I speak for all of them when I say it gives us great pride to lead this team and to represent our Club, and we’re excited by all the ways our program can continue to improve in 2024.”
Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 AFLW Season. Head to Ticketmaster to book your ticket today.
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