Collingwood is pleased to announce its VFLW leadership group, with Caitlin Bunker appointed as captain for the 2021 season.

A natural leader, Bunker has been elevated from her position as the team’s vice-captain where she led the side to its 2019 premiership.

Bunker said she’s extremely honoured and privileged to lead the Magpies in their third VFLW season particularly after the cancellation of last season due to the pandemic.

“It’s really humbling to know that the group support me in this role and believe I’m the right person to lead them as we head into our first proper season since 2019,” Bunker told collingwoodfc.com.au.

“This group is building something very special and we are excited to continue to grow and develop in 2021.”

Supporting Bunker as vice-captains are Pies foundation players Sarah King and Katelyn Lee.

The club has also identified three players who will form the emerging leaders group consisting of Marla Neal, Georgia Ricardo and Jasmine Ferguson.

The three will work closely with the team’s senior leaders to help continue to drive and support the group both on and off the field.

“The leaders have a really close connection with the playing group and we’re all confident in who we are as a team,” Bunker said.

“Each leader has something special to offer the side and by having leaders in different positions throughout the field will provide support and will help make us a strong and competitive side.”

Collingwood VFLW head coach Chloe McMillan says Bunker is the perfect role model for this group and she is excited to see what more the leaders can offer the side heading into the season.

“Caitlin has been an integral part of our VFLW program for the last three years and is an exceptional leader who is driven and passionate both on and off the field,” McMillan said.

“Having every player nominate her during our leadership vote is a great testament of her character and shows the respect and support she has from the playing group.

“As a group, the leaders are all first and foremost exceptional people and they continue to drive the standards and set high expectations to ensure we give ourselves the best possible chance of success in 2021.”

While the 2021 VFLW fixture is yet to be released, the season is expected to begin in late February.

Collingwood’s VFLW 2021 Leadership Group:

Caitlin Bunker (captain)

Katelyn Lee (vice-captain)

Sarah King (vice-captain)

Jasmine Ferguson 

Marla Neal

Georgia Ricardo