Reigning best and fairest Georgia Nanscawen has been appointed Essendon’s new VFL Women’s captain.

The 28-year-old led the player voting for the leadership group, with 2019 captain Courtney Ugle (vice-captain), Kendra Heil, Eloise Ashley-Cooper and newcomer Mia-Rae Clifford rounding out the contingent.

Nanscawen said it was a privilege to lead the VFLW Bombers in their third season.

"It's a huge honour and I feel very proud to be given the opportunity to lead this group,” Nanscawen said.

“We have been working hard to build a great culture within the group, and I can't wait to see what we can produce in 2021.”

A former Hockeyroo and Olympian who played 205 international matches before crossing to the AFLW with North Melbourne, Nanscawen will bring a wealth of experience as captain.

Head coach Brendan Major said Nanscawen had led by example since joining the team in 2019.

“Georgia's work ethics and professionalism have made her a fantastic leader over the past 24 months,” Major said.

“We are really excited about the direction Georgia and our new leadership group will be able to drive for the playing group and the club.”

While the 2021 VFLW fixture is yet to be released, the season is expected to begin in late February.

Round one will mark the Bombers’ first VFLW game since August 24, 2019, following the cancellation of the 2020 season due to COVID-19.