Falcons Leadership Duo Display Premiership QualitiesFriday, February 17, 2023 - 9:46 AM

West Perth recruits Katherine Bennett and Brooke Hongell have made such an impression with the squad they’ve been elected co-captains in 2023.

The duo decided to return home to the Falcons after helping Claremont claim last season’s WAFLW Premiership and both share similar sentiments about the appointment.

“We were honoured to be recognised by the group as leaders.

Being entrusted to this role of helping this young group of talented girls despite us being new is exciting and heart-warming.

Both of us started our football careers at West Perth, so it now feels surreal to be captaining the WAFLW side.

The growth and potential this club has for future success is clear and we can’t wait to part of it,” the joint captains said.

Bennett and Hongell share a philosophy when it comes to leadership.

“We hope to be advocates for the group, leading by example when we train and how we go about our business on game day.

With such a young squad we hope to share our knowledge, be approachable and be leaders who can challenge the squad to be the best player they can be.”

The skippers have declared pre-season a success.

“From the get-go everyone knew there was going to be change and everyone took that head on with open minds.

After the summer camp the group has become increasingly close.

The environment around the group allows everyone’s voice to heard.”

Coming off a winless season in the club’s debut year, the inclusion of two players with Premiership experience is invaluable.

“The goal from the start has been to change the squad’s mindset and improve our resilience, areas that the side was challenged last year.

Despite the lack of on field success in 2022, everyone is excited about the potential at the club.”

Hongell and Bennett have been impressed by the environment at Pentanet Stadium.

“The support from the coaches and the women’s program has been extraordinary.

We’re regularly asked how the club could improve and we’ve already seen action.

We’re starting to see the “one club” mantra taking effect, with shared access and future combined events, such as co trainings and social events.

This support means a lot to the squad, knowing we’re backed by the entire club and our supporters,” they said.

West Perth opens its 2023 campaign against East Perth at Leederville Oval on Saturday March 11.