Essendon has locked away five of its key VFLW stars for next season, with Skipper El Chaston, Vice-Captain Sophie Molan, as well as key cogs in Tia Davidge, Olivia Manfre and Brooke Plummer all recommitting to the Club.

Following an impressive 2025 campaign for the group, the early re-signings make for a massive boost - especially in the case of Plummer and Chaston who were each named in the VFLW Team of the Year - the Captain also taking home the Club's Best and Fairest.

The Dons' last two leading goalkickers in Davidge and Manfre add more firepower for next season, with the latter's return this season providing a spark in their run home to secure a finals spot.

For Molan, whose versatility across half back and the midfield has been a massive strength, a comeback from injury will make the side even stronger in its push to go one better next year.