Evie Cowcher and Lexi Gregor step into McDonald's shoes
First-year Cats Evie Cowcher and Lexi Gregor have stepped into roles vacated by former captain Meghan McDonald, who was dropped last year.
Evie Cowcher and Lexi Gregor arrived at Geelong as Meghan McDonald, a beloved former captain, was sensationally dropped. Gregor made her AFLW debut in round four and has played all but one game since, missing only to concussion, cementing her place as a key defender.
Cowcher, a West Australian, has played 12 of 13 games in her debut season and inherited McDonald's No.11 guernsey, though she didn't know its significance at first. The pair have developed a close working relationship, controlling the gym playlist and helping Cowcher feel just safe and welcome in her first year away from home.
Their chemistry works: Gregor is exuberant, Cowcher drier and calm. Geelong's backline coach Sam Simpson says he values how each brings different strengths.
This week they face a do-or-die semi-final against Sydney, where old friend and former junior footy teammate Zippy Fish plays for the Swans.
- 12 of 13
- Games played by Gregor
- 12 of 13
- Games played by Cowcher
- Second
- Ladder finish
- 11
- Guernsey number
Why it mattersYoung players stepping into the shoes of club icons shows how teams evolve and how new talent can honour legacy while building their own.
AustraliaThese Geelong players are part of a growing AFLW generation, with interstate recruitment helping develop the women's game across Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 9 h ago
