Kara Donnellan to captain Dockers in AFLW

A midfielder nicknamed 'Juddy' has been appointed captain of Fremantle for their inaugural AFLW season, with Kara Donnellan handed the responsibility of spearheading the franchise's premiership hopes.

Donnellan, whose silky skills have drawn comparisons with former West Coast and Carlton great Chris Judd, was voted in as captain by her teammates.

Kirby Bentley and Kiara Bowers were named vice-captains, while Amy Lavell and Dana Hooker round out the five-person leadership group.

The appointment of Bowers as vice-captain is especially notable given she will miss the entire 2017 season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Donnellan led Swan Districts to two WAWFL premierships in the past three seasons.

The three-time All-Australian said her nickname 'Juddy' was given to her by former Demons teammate Debbie Lee.

Fremantle's season kicks off against the Bulldogs at Whitten Oval on February 4.