Inaugural West Coast Eagles AFLW captain Emma Swanson has stepped down from her leadership role after six seasons.

The star midfielder-turned-defender has been a constant pillar of leadership and stability for a developing Eagles squad, with her character and work ethic a true inspiration for her teammates.

Swanson recently welcomed a baby boy, Joey, with her fiancée Andrea, and is looking forward to balancing family life with football.

“For the last 12 months I’ve been thinking about stepping down as skipper,” Swanson said.

“I’ve had some really good conversations with Daisy (Pearce) and Michelle (Cowan) over the last three or four months, and I think the best time is now.

“Things have changed a fair bit for me at home, so that’s where my priorities are, and it will be nice to just be able to come in here and be (one of the players) and let someone else make the role their own.

“It’s been a hell of a ride and a lot of fun, I’m not going anywhere, and probably won’t be doing anything differently, other than not flipping the coin (on game day).

“I’m sure whoever takes over will do a great job and we’ve got some phenomenal leaders in our group and the team will be in great hands.”

Head of Women’s Football Michelle Cowan has been working alongside Swanson at the club since the Eagles entered the AFLW competition and has high praise for the dual Club Champion.

“We’ve been really fortunate to have such a consistent and committed leader of our program,” Cowan said.

“Swanny’ always gives 100 percent, and will no doubt continue to do so as part of the team.

“She leads with strength, humility and passion, so it’s been fantastic to have her in the captaincy role for the past six seasons.

“We look forward to her continued support with our emerging leaders within the program.”

The Eagles begun official pre-season on Monday, with round one of the 2025 season scheduled for the week commencing August 11.