Adelaide will usher in a new era with three-time Premiership stars Sarah Allan and Ebony Marinoff appointed Co-Captains.
Allan and Marinoff will share the leadership responsibility after receiving strong support in a player vote, with the appointments then formally endorsed by the Club’s Board of Directors and senior management.
Their elevation follows seven years of strong and stable leadership under Chelsea Randall, who initially shared the captaincy with former great Erin Phillips when the AFLW team was born.
Allan, who has previously served as vice-captain, has played 69 games and earnt All-Australian selection on three occasions, while Marinoff is a two-time Club Champion, six time All-Australian and Adelaide’s games record holder with 79 appearances.
The 26-year-olds will be supported by a new-look leadership group, with returning member Eloise Jones, joined by new additions Anne Hatchard, Jess Allan and Najwa Allen.
Crows AFLW Senior Coach Matthew Clarke is confident Allan and Marinoff will flourish in the role.
“It’s fantastic to be in the position where we have two deserved Co-Captains in Sarah and Ebony, who will help lead and drive the group,” Clarke said.
“They are proven high performing individuals who have the respect of their teammates and opposition.
“Captaincy can be demanding and we have successfully had Co-Captains in the past with Chelsea Randall and Erin Phillips, as well as Rory Sloane and Taylor Walker in the Men’s program.
“Both Sarah and Ebony have skills, qualities and personalities that complement each other, and we believe they will bring out the best in one another and the team.”
Allan said it was an honour to be named Co-Captain alongside Marinoff.
“It’s such a privilege to have the opportunity to lead this team and to have received the support of the playing group and the Club’s administration,” Allan said.
“Ebony and I went through the talent pathway system and got drafted together so it will be great to have her by my side, as well as the rest of the leadership group who all want to continue to learn and grow together.
“We have different characteristics and skills which will be helpful and we’re on the same page in terms of the success we want to achieve and our care for the group.”
Marinoff said she had evolved as a player and leader and was now well prepared and ready to influence and guide her team mates.
“I’m so passionate about this footy club and have been ever since I walked in the door, so it’s a huge privilege,” Marinoff said.
“To be voted in by my peers, have the support of the whole club and share the responsibility with Sarah is so special and something that means a lot to me.
“We have a lot of younger players and a leadership group that is new and fresh so I’m really looking forward to us challenging each other in the season ahead.”
Tickets for all Adelaide's 2024 AFLW games go on sale today (Tuesday, July 30) at 10am for Members and 2pm for the general public. They are available here.
