Inaugural West Coast captain Emma Swanson steps down after six seasons to focus on family

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Inaugural West Coast captain Emma Swanson steps down after six seasons to focus on family

West Coast’s inaugural AFLW captain Emma Swanson has stepped down from her leadership role to focus on balancing family life after the birth of her son.

Swanson has been part of the Eagles since their inception having moved across to join the expansion club after three seasons at GWS.

Despite the club’s struggles, Swanson has always led from the front, becoming the most decorated Eagle in the AFLW, having won back-to-back club champion awards and is a three-time All-***********.

While the 30-year-old will remain integral to the Eagles’ defence,e she has relinquished the captaincy in order to spend more time with her family having recently welcomed baby boy, Joey, with her fiancé Andrea.

“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.”

Camera IconDaisy Pearce, Senior Coach of the Eagles talks with Emma Swanson. Credit: Daniel Carson/AFL Photos/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Despite the change, Swanson said she has no desire to hang up the boots anytime soon.

“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 praised Swanson for her leadership and the integral role she’s played in the development of young stars.

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“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’ pre-season will begin on Monday with vice-captains Bella Lewis and Charlie Thomas the most likely candidates to succeed Swanson.

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