CARLTON'S reigning best-and-fairest winner Brianna Davey will captain the Blues in 2018, with inaugural skipper Lauren Arnell and midfielder Sarah Hosking appointed joint vice-captains.

After undertaking an extensive process involving coaches, players and key leaders at the Club, the new-look three-player leadership group has been established in the second AFLW pre-season campaign.

As one of the Club’s marquee signings in 2016, Davey made an immediate impact in the first AFLW season. As joint vice-captain in the inaugural year, the 22-year-old defender commanded the backline and had a strong on-field presence in the six games she played – ultimately recognised for her efforts in the 2017 AFLW All Australian Team.

Davey said she was proud to be named as the Club’s second AFLW captain.

“I love Carlton and I'm very grateful to hold this prestigious role – it’s an honour,” Davey said.

“It’s awesome to have Lauren by my side as vice-captain, she is a wonderful leader and I know I’ll be able to learn a lot from her experience.

“Sarah too is such a competitor and pushes everyone to get the best out of themselves, so I know she’ll have a positive impact on the group and will give me great support.

“As a leadership group, we can’t wait for the second AFLW season to get underway and we’re excited by what this team can hopefully achieve.”


Bri Davey will captain the Game Changers in 2018. (Photo: AFL Photos)

After leading the Blues onto Ikon Park for the first historic match of the AFLW competition, Arnell’s appointment as joint vice-captain will aid the transition for Davey and help implement an effective succession plan.

AFLW coach Damien Keeping said the new-look leadership group will benefit the team long term.

“I’m really proud of the leadership program we have developed at the Club over the past few years and the process we have in place – as a values-based side, we are confident it will hold the team in strong stead for years to come,” Keeping said.

“After recently completing that process, Bri was identified as the natural fit amongst our group and the decision was fully supported by her teammates and the Club. She is a terrific communicator, loves the contest and gives 100 per cent every time she pulls on the navy blue jumper.

“Most importantly Bri lives to our values, sets high standards and is totally invested at Carlton.

“To have Lauren’s experience, mixed with our young emerging young leaders in Bri and Sarah, is a real positive for the team and strengthens our commitment to developing our people as leaders both on and off the field.

“We know our members and supporters will be really excited about the upcoming AFLW season.”

Davey will run out as captain for the first time when Carlton plays a practice match against the Bulldogs on Saturday 20 January, before taking on Collingwood in the Round 1 opener at Ikon Park on Friday 2 February.