Collingwood has announced its VFLW leadership group for the 2019 season.

Taking the reins as co-captains are Collingwood AFLW foundation player Ruby Schleicher and former Caulfield Grammarians star Grace Buchan.

Both were members of the Pies’ inaugural VFLW side last year. Schleicher impressed down back, while the speedy Buchan was versatile throughout the midfield and forward line.

Fresh to the leadership team are Maddie Shevlin and Caitlin Bunker, who will serve as vice-captains.

Before making her AFLW debut with the Pies earlier this year, Shevlin’s impressive work-rate and strong penetrating kick saw her crowned the Casey Demons’ best and fairest last season.  

A hard-running half-back, Bunker arrives at the Holden Centre after spending time at the GWS Giants' Academy.

Completing the leadership group as deputy-vice-captains are AFLW Rising Star nominee Jordyn Allen and former St Kilda Sharks player Katelyn Lee.

Allen is a natural-born leader, having captained Vic Country at the 2018 Under 18 championships as well as having served two years as the Dandenong Stingrays skipper.

A dominant forward, Lee returns to the field after playing a total of 12 games for the Pies last year.

Collingwood’s VFLW coach, Penny Cula-Reid says the combination of leaders from the AFLW and VFLW squads will not only bring a wealth of experience to the program, but will also provide another opportunity for them to step up and develop their leadership skills. 

“This particular arrangement of co-captains allows these players to share the load, but most importantly it provides them with another avenue for development, which is the main purpose of the VFLW program,” Cula-Reid told collingwoodfc.com.au.

“By working together, this group of leaders will continue to drive our cohesive culture and will be that voice both on and off the field.”