WEST Coast will again have two skippers in 2026, with Liam Baker joining Liam Duggan in the role.
While Duggan enters the co-captaincy role for a third season, Baker has been elevated to lead alongside him following the departure of Oscar Allen to Brisbane at the end of last season.
The duo were voted into the roles by the playing group and endorsed by the football department, becoming the third pairing of players to co-captain the Eagles.
It's a huge nod for Baker in just his second season at the club after crossing from Richmond at the end of the 2024 season.
However, the 28-year-old will miss the Eagles' first hitout of 2026 after copping a one-match ban for rough conduct in the final round of last season.
Baker said the appointment came with a few nerves but plenty of excitement.
"It's an exciting time for the club and myself," he said.
"To be joining 'Duggo' for the season is very exciting and I'm looking forward to a good 2026.
"I feel like we ticked a lot of boxes last year and are getting ready for the future.
"We're a very young list, but there have been a lot of good signs."
Baker said Duggan's consistency and care were key reasons he was eager to lead alongside him.
"His care for the whole group, for the footy club, his passion stands out," Baker said.
"He's been through some hard yards and some great times as well and I know he's excited about the future of the club."
For Duggan, the honour remains as meaningful as ever.
"It's a huge honour," Duggan said.
"To feel the backing of the boys is great, and being able to do it with 'Bakes' is a really great opportunity for us.
"His on‑field performance last year and his standards on the training track have been second to none.
"We're very different leaders, which I think will be great moving forward, and to share the load with 'Bakes' is a great appointment for the club."
Joining the co‑captains in the 2026 leadership group are returning members Jake Waterman and Jack Graham, along with three new additions in Reuben Ginbey, Matt Flynn and new recruit Brandon Starcevich.
Duggan said the leadership group was ready to drive standards.
"We're a big group, we're a big club. Leading together, I think we can take the group in the right direction."
