Geelong Cats AFLW leaders announced for 2025

Two-time All-Australian Meghan McDonald will captain Geelong’s AFLW side for a sixth-straight season, with the Cats confirming a new three-player leadership group for the coming season.

Amy McDonald, who joined the Cats’ leadership group in 2024, has been elevated to co-vice-captain, alongside Nina Morrison, who has been vice-captain since 2022 Season 6

An emerging leader, the 27-year-old McDonald has excelled in Geelong’s midfield in recent seasons, including finishing equal runner-up in the league Best and Fairest in 2023, and earning All-Australian selection in 2022 Season 7.

Since debuting, McDonald has played 56 games in the hoops and is a three-time Geelong Cats AFLW Best and Fairest winner.

Morrison continues as co-vice-captain, after a career-best season in 2024, averaging career highs in disposals, tackles and clearances on her way to winning her first Cats AFLW Best and Fairest award.

Geelong Cats head of AFLW Dominque Condo said the club had many strong leaders.

“Meg is an outstanding leader who continues to drive our standards with consistency, care and great integrity. She is well-respected by her teammates, staff and the AFL industry, and we are thrilled to have her continue to lead our group.

“We are equally excited to see Nina continue to grow into a strong and confident leader

“She sets the tone through her professionalism and competitiveness, and we’re excited to see her take another step in her development this season.”

Condo said McDonald being co-vice-captain was a fantastic opportunity for her to step up.

“She has had a significant impact within the program both on and off the field, and her elevation reflects the respect she’s earned from the group.

“While Meg, Nina ana Amy will formally lead our group, we are very fortunate to have strong leaders right across the board that will help guide us on and off the field in 2025.”

Geelong will host reigning premiers North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos at GMHBA Stadium season on August 16 in Round 1 of the 2025 AFLW season.