Bre Koenen, one of the most experienced players in the AFLW competition has donned the Lions’ maroon, blue and gold 103 times, with this year’s captaincy making her one of the longest serving captains in AFLW history.

“It means a lot to have the continued belief and support of the club,” Koenen said.

“We have a very impressive and mature squad which enables a strong leadership group from both a personal and performance perspective.”

05:44

Koenen: "Feel like I'm growing as a person on and off the field"

We chat with Bre Koenen after the squad selected the important defender as their captain for the 6th year in a row.

Assisting with the captaincy reins, will be vice-captains from the 2025 season, Nat Grider and Belle Dawes.

Continuing on from last season, Cathy Svarc, Ruby Svarc, Jade Ellenger, Ally Anderson and Sophie Conway will round out the leadership group.

Jennifer Dunne will add some Irish flair to the group, becoming the Lions’ first Irish AFLW player selected in the leadership group.

After being identified by Craig Starcevich while playing Gaelic Football in Dublin, Dunne debuted in the 2023 NAB AFLW season and went on to win a premiership in her first season at the club. The key defender is on track to play her 50th game this season.

“It’s exciting to see Jen Dunne elevated into the group this year. Her growth in such a short time has been phenomenal,” Koenen said.

Lions AFLW senior coach Craig Starcevich said the consistency of the leadership group reflected the trust the playing group has in its leaders.

“The stability in the leadership group over the last few seasons is reassuring and great to see,” Starcevich said.

“After adding Jade and Ruby last season, now Jen joins the group.

“Jen will be a great asset to the leadership group. She has great character on and off the field and has really found her place here at the club.”