The Essendon Football Club has unveiled its AFLW leadership group ahead of the 2026 season, with Bonnie Toogood being appointed as sole captain.
As the Bombers prepare for their fifth AFLW campaign, the Club has transitioned from the co-captaincy model that has been in place since Essendon's entry into the competition, appointing a single captain for the first time.
The co-captaincy partnership of Bonnie Toogood and Steph Cain has been widely recognised by players, coaches, and staff for helping establish a strong foundation during the Club's formative years in the AFLW.
Having been part of the AFLW system since 2018 and serving as co-captain since Essendon's inaugural season, Toogood will now lead the side as captain.
“It’s such an honour, and it has been such an honour over the past four seasons to serve this team and represent this Club,” Toogood said.
“I’m so bullish on what this playing group can do, and particularly the growth of this playing group in the past year.
“I do want to acknowledge everything Caino and I have done together, and I wouldn’t be half the person or half the leader I am without our relationship and our co-captaincy and everything we’ve been able to build over these four years.”
Essendon AFLW General Manager Aysha Ward said the leadership transition reflects the evolution of the program, while recognising the significant impact of the Club's co-captaincy model.
“Bonnie and Steph have played an enormous role in shaping the culture and standards of our AFLW program since day one,” Ward said.
“Their partnership has provided strong, authentic leadership and helped lay the foundations for the group we have today. We're incredibly grateful for everything they've built together over the past four seasons.
“Bonnie is a respected leader who consistently drives high standards and brings people together. She's earned the trust of her teammates and staff, and we're excited to see her continue leading the group into its next chapter.
Continuing in her role as vice-captain is Maddison Gay. Recently selected to represent Australia in the upcoming AFLW Australia v Ireland clash and having signed a contract extension through to at least the end of 2029, Gay remains an influential figure both on and off the field.
Joining Toogood and Gay in the leadership group are Steph Cain, Steph Wales and Amy Gaylor, who graduates from the Club's emerging leaders’ program. The trio bring a wealth of experience, professionalism and leadership qualities to their roles.
The emerging leadership group will continue in 2026, with Mia Busch, Emily Gough and Georgia Clarke retaining their positions from last season. Alexandra Morcom joins the group as its newest member.
2026 AFLW Leadership Group
Captain: Bonnie Toogood
Vice-Captain: Maddison Gay
Leadership Group:
- Steph Cain
- Steph Wales
- Amy Gaylor
Emerging Leaders:
- Mia Busch
- Emily Gough
- Georgia Clarke
- Alexandra Morcom
