Inaugural Saint, Hannah Priest will hand over the captaincy ahead of the 2026 AFLW season, concluding a leadership tenure that helped shape the club’s AFLW program from its inception into one built on elite standards, strong culture and leadership depth.
After six seasons in the role, including five as sole captain, Priest has chosen to hand over the reins, leaving a lasting legacy through the impact she has had on the AFLW program and the people within it.
Reflecting on the decision, Priest said the transition represented a natural progression for both herself and the evolving AFLW program.
“Leadership has never been about titles or recognition for me - it’s always been about what I could do for this club, this team and the people beside me,” Priest said.
“A highlight of my journey has been being part of the growth and environment we’ve built together.
“Watching the next generation of leaders continue to thrive and flourish in their own individual ways may ultimately be one of my proudest achievements.”
Having been part of the AFLW program since the club first entered the competition in 2020, Priest leaves the captaincy having played a significant role in shaping the growth, identity and future direction of St Kilda’s AFLW program.
“While Hannah steps away from the captaincy title, her leadership and influence within our football club will continue to be felt for years to come,” St Kilda AFLW General Manager Jessie Mulholland said.
“As our first sole AFLW captain, Hannah has had a profound impact on the growth and evolution of this program and the people within it.
“Hannah has led with enormous care, authenticity and selflessness, consistently making the people and environment around her better from the moment she stepped into the role.
“We thank Hannah for everything she has given this football club as captain and look forward to the ongoing impact she will continue to have across our AFLW program.”
Further details regarding the club’s 2026 AFLW leadership group will be announced at a later date.
