Collingwood has announced its AFLW leadership group for the 2026 NAB AFLW Season, with a three-person group set to lead.
Ruby Schleicher, who was appointed as the Club’s third AFLW Captain last year, will continue to lead the side into Season 11. An inaugural Pie, Schleicher enters 2026 with 74 games under her belt and was awarded the Club’s Player’s Player Award by the playing group at last year’s Best and Fairest awards night.
Collingwood Captain Ruby Schleicher said:
“I’m honoured to lead this team again and being Captain is a role I’ll continue to pour my heart and soul into.
“This Club and team mean so much to me and I’m proud to lead alongside strong, emerging leaders who bring so much care and passion to everything we do.
“We’ve got a special group here and I’m excited for what we can achieve together.”
Approaching her fourth season in the leadership group, Jordy Allen enters her third year as Vice-Captain. Allen continues to lead by example with her elite football craft and calm presence.
Vice-Captain Jordy Allen said:
“I’m grateful and proud to be entering my third year as Vice-Captain of this football club.
“Having the continued trust from the playing group means so much to me and I want to keep doing my part to help us connect and grow as a team”
In an exciting addition, Lucy Cronin has been elevated to an official leadership role.
Entering just her third AFLW season, Cronin has already built an impressive football resume. The young Pie capped off her maiden campaign with a Rising Star nomination, selection in the 22under22 team and a runner-up finish in the Club’s Best and Fairest count.
Continuing her progression in 2025, Cronin earned another 22under22 squad nomination and finished third in the Club’s Best and Fairest last season.
Leader Lucy Cronin said:
“I am grateful to be recognised and given the opportunity to lead our team for 2026. I’m excited to keep learning, keep growing and do my part for this group.
“This group has really shaped who I am as a footballer and person today. I’ve learnt from so many incredible people around me, and hope that I can use my leadership position to support the rest of the group.”
Collingwood’s EGM of Women’s Football Jess Burger congratulated the group on their appointment.
“We are excited to announce our AFLW leadership group ahead of the 2026 season. Ruby will continue as Captain, with Jordy again supporting as Vice-Captain. Both are highly respected leaders who consistently look to drive the growth of our program,” Burger said.
“Congratulations to Lucy on her elevation to the leadership group. Her maturity and relentless drive to get the best out of herself and those around her have enabled her to quickly establish herself within the group. She already embodies many of the qualities of a strong leader and we are excited to see the impact she will have.
“We are fortunate to have many leaders across the program who may not hold a leadership title but will continue to make our side better each day.
“All our leaders are aligned in our program’s vision and we know their leadership will provide a solid foundation as we head into the 2026 season.
