WEST Coast’s first and only AFLW skipper, Emma Swanson, has stepped down from the role ahead of the 2025 NAB AFLW season.
Swanson took the reins for the club’s first AFLW season in 2020, returning home to Perth after starting her AFLW career with Greater Western Sydney.
The 30-year-old’s fiancée, former West Coast forward Andrea Gilmore, recently gave birth to the couple’s first child Joey, while Swanson is also a trained firefighter.
“For the last 12 months I’ve been thinking about stepping down as skipper,” Swanson said.
“I’ve had some really good conversations with [coach] Daisy [Pearce] and [Head of Women’s Football] Michelle [Cowan] over the last three or four months, and I think the best time is now.
Emma Swanson in action during the round eight AFLW match between West Coast and Fremantle at Sullivan Logistics Stadium, on October 19, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos
“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.”
But Swanson insists retirement is the furthest thing from her mind.
“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),” she said.
“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.”
Daisy Pearce celebrates with Emma Swanson after the AFLW R3 match between West Coast and the Western Bulldogs at Mission Whitten Oval on September 12, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos
Cowan, who has worked alongside Swanson since the club entered the AFLW competition, was full of praise for the dual cub champion.
“We’ve been really fortunate to have such a consistent and committed leader of our program,” Cowan said.
“‘Swanny’ always gives 100 per cent, 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.”
Bella Lewis, 22, has served as vice-captain for the past three seasons, with 21-year-old Charlie Thomas also vice-captain for the past two. Matilda Sergeant and Jess Hosking rounded out last year’s leadership group.
