Hannah Priest will once again lead St Kilda’s AFLW team, with the club today unveiling its 2024 five-player leadership group.

Priest will lead alongside returning vice-captain Bianca Jakobsson and three new additions to the group in Tyanna Smith, Georgia Patrikios and Serene Watson.

This will be the fifth season with Priest as skipper, her fourth as standalone captain, while 2024 will also serve as the fifth season in a leadership position for Jakobsson.

“It’s a privilege to be able to captain this club for another season. I’m excited to lead such a connected and determined playing group” Priest said.

“I’m very grateful to have Bianca by my side, as well as the youthful energy of Tyanna, Georgia and Serene. I know this group will lead by example through their actions on-field whilst driving the culture and standards off-field.

The leadership group was determined after players were asked to self-nominate for a leadership position before the playing group individually nominated a captain and up to five players who consistently display the team’s values. The elected group was then endorsed by the EGM – AFLW, AFLW Senior Coach and Club Board.

“We believe the future of our program is in great hands and congratulate all five players on their selection to this year’s leadership group,” Executive General Manager of AFLW Tessie McManus said.

“Led by Hannah, these leaders all embody not only the on-field talent required, but the strength of character necessary to steer our club towards success.

“Nicola Stevens and Steph Chiocci will remain senior leaders for the group, albeit not in a formal capacity. Their vast experience in the AFLW competition will be invaluable as our group continues to grow.  

“We thank Nicola and Steph, as well as Natalie Plane, Molly McDonald and Hannah Stuart on their integral leadership roles last season and know they will continue as role models and mentors in our team.”