STAR Carlton defender Brianna Davey has been rewarded with the captaincy after an excellent inaugural NAB AFL Women's season.

She takes over the role from Lauren Arnell, who along with fellow midfielder Sarah Hosking will serve as Davey's deputies in a three-woman leadership group.

Davey was the runaway winner of last year's best and fairest, when she had been a deputy vice-captain alongside Madeline Keryk.

The decision was made by players, coaches and other club personnel.

Davey, who turns 23 on Saturday, told carltonfc.com.au having Arnell's support would make her a better skipper.

"I love Carlton and am very grateful to hold this prestigious role – it's an honour," Davey said.

"It's awesome to have Lauren by my side as vice-captain. She is a wonderful leader and I know I'll be able to learn a lot from her experience.

"Sarah too is such a competitor and pushes everyone to get the best out of themselves, so I know she'll have a positive impact on the group and will give me great support.

"As a leadership group, we can't wait for the second AFLW season to get underway and we're excited by what this team can hopefully achieve."

Davey previously played soccer and has made the Matildas national squad as a goalkeeper.

The Blues finished fourth last year and coach Damien Keeping said Davey's appointment would help take his side to the next level.

"I'm really proud of the leadership program we have developed at the club over the past few years and the process we have in place, as a values-based side, we are confident it will hold the team in strong stead for years to come," Keeping said.

"After recently completing that process, Bri was identified as the natural fit amongst our group and the decision was fully supported by her teammates and the club. She is a terrific communicator, loves the contest and gives 100 per cent every time she pulls on the navy blue jumper.

"Most importantly Bri lives to our values, sets high standards and is totally invested at Carlton.

"To have Lauren's experience, mixed with our young emerging young leaders in Bri and Sarah, is a real positive for the team and strengthens our commitment to developing our people as leaders both on and off the field. 

"We know our members and supporters will be really excited about the upcoming AFLW season."

Carlton has a practice match against the Western Bulldogs on Saturday, January 20, which will be Davey's first opportunity to lead the side.

The Blues will play in the season opener on Friday, February 2, against Collingwood at Ikon Park.

Former Blues skipper Lauren Arnell will be a vice-captain in 2018. Picture: AFL Photos