Former GWS midfielder Emma Swanson has been named the inaugural captain of the West Coast Eagles' AFLW team.

The 24-year-old returned to WA after three seasons at the Giants, including a role as vice captain in their inaugural season.

The midfielder is originally from Mandurah, Western Australia and played state league football for the Peel Thunderbirds and East Fremantle in the West Australian Women's Football League (WAWFL).

Swanson missed last season with a shoulder injury, but has been ramping up her training since signing a two year deal with the Eagles earlier this year.

“First and foremost, I’m just excited to represent such a great footy club as a player and to be the first ever captain is a fantastic opportunity that I’m really grateful for,” Swanson told the club’s website.

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“I’m really excited to represent such a great group of girls.

“I’m probably on a bit of a journey to find what exactly my leadership style is.

“It’s something that I’m sure I’m going to be challenged with in the near future, but it’s definitely a challenge that I want to attack head first.

“As long as I’m a good person, I’m approachable and I’m doing the right things myself, everything else will flow on from there.”

Camera Icon Former Giant Emma Swanson handballs during the 2019 NAB AFLW Round 01 match between the Brisbane Lions and the GWS Giants. Credit: AFL Media

Dana Hooker (VC) has been named as Swanson’s deputy, while Maddy Collier, Courtney Guard and Alicia Janz round out the leadership group.

Speaking earlier this year, the four-time Peel Thunder best and fairest winner said she was looking forward to lining up alongside her new teammates.

“I’m really excited to play alongside Dana Hooker. She’s had a stellar three years.

“Kellie Gibson is another one that I think is set to play some really good footy.

“She’s been hit by injuries the last couple of years, but I think she’s pretty stoked to be an Eagle, the club that she supported her whole life.

“We played state under 18s together for three years and we were in the same Melbourne exhibition team for four games.

“I’ve had a fair bit to do with Gibbo since I first started playing the sport.

“She’s so athletic and can play forward or through the midfield. She’s looking really fit and really strong at the moment.”