Liam Duggan and Liam Baker will lead the West Coast Eagles as co-captains for the 2026 AFL season.

Following a vote by the playing squad, Duggan and Baker’s co-captaincy was endorsed by the Football Department leadership and ratified by the Board this week.

Duggan continues as co-captain for a third-straight season while Baker takes on the shared role after claiming the John Worsfold Medal in his first season in blue and gold.

“Leading the largest and youngest squad in the AFL, co-captaincy will allow both players to mentor their teammates in the most effective way and to also fulfill the off-field duties that captaincy demands, whilst still focusing on their individual preparation and performance,” Head of Football John Worsfold said.

“They will complement each other’s leadership styles to guide the team’s commitment to achieving its shared ambition of doing what it takes to win our next premiership.”

Entering the team’s 40^th AFL season, Duggan and Baker become the third pairing of players to co-captain the Eagles.

“Liam Duggan has enormous respect from everyone at the Club and was awarded his third Chris Mainwaring Medal for Best Clubman in 2025,” Worsfold said.

“His on-field leadership is consistently acknowledged by his teammates through feedback seen within the leadership votes, and he is committed to the team’s progress in Andrew McQualter’s second year as coach.

“Since joining the Club, Liam Baker has had an immediate impact with his training standards, his ability to connect with teammates and all staff, and his communication and passion to see the Club achieve on-field success.

“It was no surprise he was seen as a worthy captain through the players leadership vote.”

Duggan and Baker will head a seven-player leadership group for 2026.

Jake Waterman and Jack Graham will continue as leaders after joining the group last year, with Reuben Ginbey, Matt Flynn and recruit Brandon Starcevich included for the upcoming season.

“Reuben’s teammates consistently recognise his work ethic and commitment shown both on and off the field,” Worsfold said.

“He is often held up as the example for all young players to learn from his training standards and, after spending some time in 2025 attending leadership meetings, he is rewarded with this role.

“Matt Flynn is a natural connector who is widely respected for the time he devotes to ensuring there is a strong sense of belonging within the playing group and Football Department.

“His work ethic to get the best out of himself is obvious. He is also a strong presence within our young midfield, and he’s been rewarded for his leadership shown over several years at the Club.

“Brandon’s leadership qualities have impacted our young squad immediately. Coming from Brisbane’s leadership group, he adds valuable nous and experience from within a two-time premiership squad.

“With that knowledge and his own quiet but strong values base, his teammates nominated him for their leadership group without question.”