Sarah Sansonetti has been named the captain of the VFLW Western Bulldogs for 2026. (Photo: Western Bulldogs Media)

Sarah Sansonetti has been appointed Western Bulldogs VFLW captain for season 2026.

This year marks Sansonetti’s second in the red, white and blue, following six seasons at AFLW level with Richmond and Collingwood. 

A composed and consistent defender, she averaged 14.2 disposals, 4.5 marks and 3.2 tackles from her 2025 campaign. 

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Bulldogs finalise 2026 VFLW squad

These efforts saw her finish runner-up in the Bulldogs’ Best and Fairest count, while also being named in the VFLW Team of the Year. 

Steph Asciak and Jemima Wrigley have been named co-vice captains, while Tamsin Crook, Millie Klingbeil and Jaimi Tabb round out the six-player leadership group. 

With a bye in Round 1, the Bulldogs will open their 2026 VFLW season with new coach Liam Cavanagh against Casey at Casey Fields on Sunday 24 May in Round 2.

2026 VFLW leadership group

Captain: Sarah Sansonetti
Co-vice captains: Steph Asciak, Jemima Wrigley
Leadership group: Tamsin Crook, Millie Klingbeil, Jaimi Tabb

The 2026 VFLW Western Bulldogs leadership group: (L-R) Millie Klingbeil, Jaimi Tabb, Steph Asiack, Sarah Sansonetti, Jemima Wrigley, Tamsin Crook. (Photo: Western Bulldogs Media)