Fremantle have re-structured their leadership group for Season 2024, with AFL New Zealand Heritage team member Ange Stannett to lead Fremantle’s AFLW side after being voted in as captain for the first time by the playing and coaching group.
The leadership group will increase from five to six this year, with three vice captains named alongside Stannett.
Former skipper Hayley Miller will have a new role as vice-captain supporting Stannett, along with key forward Aine Tighe and defender Laura Pugh, who were both leaders in 2023 and have been named as co-vice-captains with Miller.
Stannett was proud to be voted in as captain by her peers for the season ahead, despite being ruled out for the season following an ACL injury.
“I’m extremely honoured to be the third women’s captain of this Club, and a bit taken aback to be honest, given my personal circumstances,” Stannett said.
“It doesn’t change the way you show up for the group, but it is going to mean it will look a bit different, and we’ll be leaning on our other leaders and the entire group.
“I am so excited for how it is looking for 2024 and I’m very excited with the group we’ve put together, I can’t wait to get to work with all the girls.
Thrilled with her fellow leaders, Stannett touched on what her game day role will look like, and expressed her full faith in the five that will help lead the side on-field.
“It’s going to be unique, and it’s probably something I’m yet to fully be comfortable with myself as well, being the sort of person that likes to get my hands dirty,” Stannett said.
“(However), one thing I’ve learned over the last few weeks in particular, going through this injury, is that it’s how you choose to show up and how you choose to contribute to the group regardless of your own circumstances.
“So, although it will look different for me this year on game day, I’ll be on the sidelines helping coach from the bench, and I take a lot of comfort knowing I’ve got a fantastic leadership group alongside me, who are going to be able to step up in those moments for the group.”
