Trio of captains named for WA under-18s girls

Western Australia have named a trio of co-captains for their AFLW National U18 Championship campaign which kicks off against Queensland in Melbourne on Sunday morning.

West Perth midfielder Mia Russo, Subiaco defender Olivia Crane and South Fremantle mid Renee Morgan will share the captaincy honour for the carnival.

WA Football’s female talent boss Trent Cooper said all three players had outstanding leadership traits.

Crane missed last year’s tournament after rupturing her ACL, with Cooper praising her hard work and determination to get back on the park.

“Olivia had an ACL so missed last season and has worked really hard to get back,” he said.

“She’s tall but can play behind the ball or in the midfield because she has such a good tank.

“Has played well already for Subiaco, is a great leader and a terrific person.”

Cooper said he was looking forward to seeing Morgan rack up the possessions as an in-and-under midfielder.

“She’s a really good in-and-under midfielder and has great leadership,” Cooper said.

“She has been voted as one of the captains of the group and we’re looking forward to her racking up possession and using the ball well.”

Russo hadn’t had the best lead in due to injury and illness, but Cooper was excited to have the dominant midfielder back in the side.

“She’s actually been out with a hamstring injury and then last weekend she couldn’t play because of influenza, so she’s had a bad run but we’re looking forward to having her back,” Cooper said.

“Mia might not be at her best for game one of the carnival but she’s a dynamic midfielder who adds a lot to the team.”

WA’s campaign starts at 10am WST on Sunday against Queensland.

All 2025 Marsh AFL National Championships games will be available to stream via Match Centre on the AFLW website.