The experienced trio played important roles in the Seagulls’ 2026 campaign, with each featuring in all 16 home-and-away matches and contributing to the Club’s push to the VFLW Grand Final.
By Mietta Williams, Williamstown Media
Howes continued to establish herself as one of the competition’s leading rucks in 2026, featuring in every match and averaging 22.5 hitouts and 10 disposals per game.
Recruited from Casey Demons ahead of the 2025 season, the 183cm ruck quickly made her mark at Williamstown, showcasing her versatility both in the ruck and as a forward target.
Her impact was recognised at the 2026 VFLW Awards, where Howes earned selection in the VFLW Team of the Year and received the Judi Jeremiah Trophy for the competition’s Most Improved Player.
With another season of development under her belt, Howes will be a key figure in the Seagulls’ plans for 2027.
Deputy Vice-Captain Williamson will continue to provide invaluable leadership and experience, extending her long-standing contribution to the Williamstown VFLW program.
A two-time Williamstown Best and Fairest winner, Williamson has amassed 149 career games, 60 goals and 97 best player honours, establishing herself as one of the Club’s most consistent performers.
In 2026, Williamson featured in all 16 matches, averaging 11.8 disposals and 8.1 tackles per game, continuing to set the standard with her trademark intensity around the contest.
Having shared the Club’s Best and Fairest with Emily Eaves in 2024 and claimed the award outright in 2019, Williamson’s recommitment provides further stability and experience as the Seagulls look ahead to the 2027 campaign.
De Angelis has also recommitted following another consistent season in the Seagulls’ forward line.
The experienced forward played all 16 matches in 2026, averaging 11.4 disposals per game and kicking seven goals, providing an important presence inside 50.
Joining Williamstown in 2025 after establishing herself at the Southern Saints, De Angelis brought a wealth of experience to the program, including 83 VFLW games, a 2022 VFLW Grand Final appearance and the Saints’ leading goalkicker honours in 2023.
A member of the Club’s leadership group in 2025, De Angelis has continued to contribute both on and off the field, offering valuable composure and experience to the playing group.
Her recommitment will provide continuity in the Seagulls’ forward line as the Club builds towards another season.
Williamstown looks forward to welcoming Howes, Williamson and De Angelis back for the 2027 VFLW season.
