GWS Giants announce captain for inaugural women’s AFL season

A western Sydney teacher is looking to lead the Greater Western Sydney Giants to victory in the first ever AFL Women’s season in 2017.

The GWS Giants leadership group Mandy Collier, Jessica Dal Pos, Amanda Farrugia (captain), Emma Swanson (vice-captain), and Jessica Bibby. Picture: Mark Evans

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A  WESTERN Sydney teacher is looking to lead the Greater Western Sydney Giants to victory in the inaugural NAB AFL Women’s season.

Amanda Farrugia, 31, will captain the Giants in 2017 and lead a five-woman leadership team that includes marquee signing Emma Swanson as vice-captain.

The leadership group also includes local star Maddy Collier, Victorian midfielder Jessica Dal Pos and ACT veteran and former WNBL legend Jess Bibby.

“It’s a huge honour to be named captain for the inaugural season,” Farrugia said. “I’m humbled by the opportunity and responsibility.”

Farrugia, 31, discovered AFL when she was looking for a new activity to keep fit.

Coach Tim Schmidt said Farrugia was an outstanding candidate for the role.

“Amanda is a brilliant communicator, a passionate person who upholds the values of our team,” Schmidt said. “On and off the field she gives 100 per cent to everything she does and has the respect of the entire playing group.”

Giants CEO David Matthews also welcomed Farrugia’s appointment.

“This is a historic appointment for the Giants and Amanda is the ideal person to lead this group,” he said.

“To have a player from Western Sydney chosen by her peers is a sign of the growth of Australian football in this region.”

The Giants will play their first game on Saturday, February 4, against the Adelaide Crows before playing Carlton in Melbourne the following weekend.

Their first home game is at Blacktown on Saturday, February 18, when they take on Fremantle.

To become a member of the Giants’ AFL Women’s side, visit membership. gwsgiants.com.au.