Bunker, a 2019 VFLW premiership player, will take the reins as Captain for a third consecutive season.
The 29-year-old will be supported for a third year by foundation players Katelyn Lee and Sarah King who will serve as Vice-Captains. Rounding out the leadership group is new recruit, Riley Christgoergl.
Despite missing majority of the 2022 VFLW season due to injury, Bunker has made multiple best-on appearances for the Pies across her four seasons with the side.
Lee, also a member of the 2019 premiership side, is gearing up for her fourth season as a member of the Pies’ leadership group. The 27-year-old had an outstanding 2022 season down back and her efforts were rewarded with a spot on the VFLW Team of the Year.
As the Pies’ key ruck, King has served as Vice-Captain of the side since 2021 and has played a total of 47 games in the black and white.
Christgoergl joins Collingwood after two seasons as Captain of the Western Bulldogs’ VFLW side.
Collingwood’s VFLW Head Coach Chloe McMillan said she has great confidence in the experience of this year’s leaders.
“We’re thrilled to have Caitlin continue as the captain of our program in 2023,” McMillan said.
“Caitlin was unanimously voted in by her peers and staff members, which is a huge testament to her leadership and character. Her maturity, passion and care for her teammates is admired by all.
“There is stability for the playing group with Caitlin, Sarah and Katelyn, who have lead this side across multiple seasons. All three women have consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities across multiple seasons as leaders at our Club and it has been great to watch them develop in these roles throughout that time.
“Riley also brings with her several years of leadership experience and, during her short time with us already, has had a significant impact amongst our group.
“I have full faith this leadership group will continue to drive the elite standards within our environment and we are in a position to achieve success in 2023.”
Appointment of the Club’s leaders is a player-led process. The process incorporated values and leadership qualities on and off the field. The squad and key senior staff nominate and vote on candidates before a final recommendation is put to the Club’s Board for approval.
Collingwood’s 2023 VFLW team will kick off its 2023 campaign when it hosts Williamstown on Saturday, March 25, at Victoria Park.
View Collingwood’s 2023 VFLW squad here.
Collingwood’s 2023 VFLW Leadership Group:
Captain: Caitlin Bunker
Vice Captains: Katelyn Lee and Sarah King
Leader: Riley Christgoergl
