Jade Halfpenny named as Norwood SANFLW captain

It is a new era of Norwood’s Senior Women’s program with a new coach to take the reins in 2026, and now a new captain, Jade Halfpenny.

Halfpenny has been a star for the Redlegs across her 74 matches, which includes the last two Best and Fairest awards for the Redlegs, multiple state games, and two stints on AFLW lists with Port Adelaide and Carlton.

Halfpenny takes over from last year’s co-captains Steph Simmonds and Sophie Armitstead.

First year Norwood coach Ben Hunt said Halfpenny had been the standout candidate.

“Jade’s appointment as captain reflects not only her elite performance, but the respect she has earned across our entire program,” he said.

“Her experience at AFLW level, combined with her influence within our group, gives her a unique ability to lead both on and off the field.

“Jade will be exceptionally well supported by a leadership group that brings together invaluable experience and exciting young talent, creating a strong, balanced foundation to drive the program forward in 2026.”

Halfpenny said it was an honour to take on the captaincy.

“I am very excited, I was quite emotional knowing that it was voted in by my teammates and that they back me in and trust me to lead them,” she said.

“I am keen to work with Rexy (coach Ben Hunt), and the other girls in the leadership group to help guide us into the new era.

“With Rexy coming in, and the new coaches, and some new recruits, we have had a lot of change in structure and routine, everyone has brought something different, so it feels fresh, new and exciting. I am keen to see where we can take it.”

Norwood’s SANFLW side starts its 2026 campaign on Saturday, April 18 at Magain Stadium in Noarlunga against back to back reigning premiers South Adelaide.