The Essendon VFLW program is proud to announce its leadership group for the upcoming 2026 season.

Leading the side for a third consecutive year is respected, natural-born leader El Chaston, who has captained the team to finals in both the 2024 and 2025 season. Joining Chaston are Co-Vice Captains Sophie Molan and former Essendon AFLW player Jacqui Vogt, who also returns to the program as Midfield Development Coach for the 2026 season.

The leadership trio will be supported by Christina Bernardi, entering her second year in the group, and Jayda Richardson, who has been elevated from the 2025 Emerging Leadership Group.

Tia Davidge and Lucy Thompson have been named in the Emerging Leadership Group, an initiative designed to support future leaders of the game through a tailored program that strengthens leadership skills, values and application within a team environment.

Head of VFLW & Women’s Talent Project Lead Georgia Harvey highlights the impact this group has on the broader program.

“We’re thrilled to have such a strong group of players leading the way for us in 2026,” Harvey said.

“Chaston, Molan and Bernardi truly embody the values of our Club day in, day out, so we’re delighted to see them continue in their leadership roles.

“The return of Vogt as a player, Vice-Captain and Midfield Development Coach is incredibly exciting. Her experience will be invaluable to the team.

“Additionally, Richardson’s elevation from our Emerging Leadership Group is a credit to the work and dedication she’s put in over the past two seasons."

“We’re also excited to see Davidge and Thompson step into their Emerging Leader roles. Their growth as people and players, commitment to the program, and willingness to drive standards has been fantastic to watch.”

Essendon’s VFLW campaign will begin on Saturday 16 May, taking on Sandringham at Wilson Storage Trevor Barker Oval at 12:15pm (AEST).