The West Coast Eagles have confirmed the leadership group for the upcoming AFLW season, with Bella Lewis and Charlie Thomas continuing as co-captains.

Lewis and Thomas took the reigns from inaugural captain Emma Swanson ahead of the 2025 season and led this developing young group through the team’s most successful season and into finals for the first time.

“Bella and Charlie did an incredible job leading the group last season, and we’re excited to see their leadership continue to blossom in 2026,” Eagles’ senior coach Daisy Pearce said.

“Bella is an incredible athlete and footballer who really lives and drives our values, while Charlie leads by example, consistently performing her role on field and inspiring through her actions.

“They complement each other in this leadership role perfectly, and the team respond well to their combined leadership styles and the way they go about guiding this young and developing group.”

The pair will be supported by Mikayla Western, who will continue in her role as vice-captain, with Jaide Britton, Lauren Wakfer and Swanson named in the extended leadership group.

“Westy’ is a team player with infectious energy, she’s supportive of her teammates and passionate about seeing others grow,” Pearce said.

“Her clear, calm communication makes her a great teacher on the field and an extension from players to coaches and staff and vice versa.

“After stepping down as captain to focus on her growing family, it’s also great to see ‘Swanny’ return to the formal leadership group.

“Swanny’ continues to be a role model for the team with her elite standards, training ethic and care for her teammates.”

Britton and Wakfer are new additions to the leadership group and have been recognised for their developing leadership skills both on and off the field.

“Wak’ has had incredible growth across the past few seasons,” Pearce said.

“She has worked extremely hard on her game and is always pushing herself to get better, while also getting more confident and impactful with the way she instructs and communicates on field.

“Jaide sets a really high example with the way she trains and competes. She’s a strong communicator and is passionate about the team’s success.

“It’s impressive how much feedback and instruction she can give in real time which is really important in how we structure up.”