Collingwood AFLW Captain Ruby Schleicher had a superb first game of 2025.

Schleicher doing Schleicher things

Collingwood AFLW Captain Ruby Schleicher had a superb first game of 2025.

Let’s dive into Ruby Schleicher’s spectacular first outing as Collingwood AFLW Captain.

“Schleicher doing Schleicher things”

Collingwood’s official video titled “Schleicher doing Schleicher things” spotlights just how exceptional Ruby’s first game of the 2025 season was. It’s no surprise she was described as having “a superb first game” in that opener.

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A Steadfast Journey Leads to Leadership

Ruby’s pathway to captaincy is remarkable and earned. As a foundation player from the 2016 inaugural women’s draft (pick 144), she debuted in the very first AFLW match in 2017. Over the next few seasons, she juggled form and injuries, often falling in and out of the side, yet never losing determination.

Her break came in defence—she became one of the league’s elite intercept markers and disposal winners. In 2021, she earned All-Australian honours and repeated that feat again in Season Six (2022). In 2024, her versatility shone through, moving into midfield and culminating in being crowned Collingwood’s Best and Fairest, averaging 26.5 disposals, 60 intercept possessions, and 48 tackles across the season.

Her consistent leadership and performance culminated in her being named Collingwood’s AFLW Captain ahead of the 2025 season—following in the footsteps of Brianna Davey.

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Round 1: Wearing the C’s with Flair

Stepping into the captaincy role, Ruby led the Pies onto the field for the first time—an emotional and symbolic moment that evoked memories of that inaugural 2017 match at IKON Park.

Despite not securing a win, Ruby’s performance stood out, earning the moniker “Schleicher doing Schleicher things” and reassuring fans that the team’s leadership and backbone are stronger than ever.

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Why Her First Game Matters

1. From resilient beginnings to captain – Ruby’s rise tells the story of persistence and adaptability: from being frequently dropped to becoming the Best and Fairest, and now captain.

2. A calming presence under pressure – On a challenging night, Ruby’s calm defensive reads and leadership were a steadying force.

3. A vision for the future – Her journey inspires teammates and supporters. As she said herself, “It hasn’t been smooth, but it’s very much shaped me as the player and the person that I am now.”

 

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Final Thoughts

Ruby Schleicher’s leadership debut was more than just a performance—it was a statement. Her journey from rookie, through adversity, into one of the most respected players and now captain, symbolizes hope and resilience. That opening game may not have brought a win, but it showed that Collingwood’s AFLW side is in capable, refined hands.

With Ruby at the helm, the Magpies look well-positioned to soar this season.