CARLTON forward Darcy Vescio will join the Game Changers’ leadership group for the upcoming 2021 AFLW season.

After being voted in by her teammates, Vescio will return to the leadership position she held during 2019.

She will be added to the existing group that includes co-captains Kerryn Harrington and Katie Loynes as well as experienced duo Alison Downie and Nicola Stevens.

Harrington and Loynes will captain the Blues for a second straight year.

Harrington heads into 2021 off the back of consecutive All-Australian honours as one of the competition’s premier defenders.

The experienced Loynes showcased her versatility last year in a dual half forward/midfield role and her toughness and ruthlessness at the contest will again set the tone this season.

Like Vescio, Downie has played every game for the Game Changers since the AFLW’s inception in 2017 and will continue to be a presence through the ruck, while Stevens has been outstanding in fulfilling a team-first role in her transition from defender to forward in the last 12 months.  

Carlton AFLW Senior Coach Daniel Harford said the group was in a great position which such strong leadership.

“All five players bring different styles of leadership and complement each other really well,” Harford said.

“One thing they all share is a real focus to make us the most successful club we can possibly be and that becomes infectious through the entire playing group. 

“Their leadership helps make sure we are in a strong position heading into the season next week, which can’t come quick enough. We cannot wait to run out in front of our members and supporters once again.”

Tickets for next Thursday night’s season opener at Ikon Park against Collingwood will go on sale on Monday.