Matt Rose replaces Keegan Brooksby to become the Panthers’ new co-captain with Joel Cross

Matt Rose reckons he felt out of his zone when he arrived at South Adelaide from Port Adelaide six years ago. Now he is the Panthers’ new co-captain.

South Adelaide’s 2019 co-captains Matt Rose (front left) with Joel Cross (front right) and the rest of the leadership group, (from back left) Alex Cailotto, Ben Heaslip, Jake Summerton and Anthony Biemans. Picture: Supplied

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MATT Rose remembers arriving at Noarlunga six years ago feeling out of his comfort zone, having come from Port Adelaide heartland.

But it did not take long for the hard-nosed defender to develop a love for South Adelaide and become a fan favourite with the Panthers.

Last week South announced that Rose would co-captain the club this year with dual Magarey medallist Joel Cross.

Rose, 27, does not take the honour lightly and hopes to help lead the Panthers to their first flag since 1964.

Matt Rose in action against Norwood’s Matthew Panos last year. Picture: Sarah Reed

“It (switching to South) was obviously very different, coming across from Port with everything that happened back then,” says Rose, who has been the Panthers’ vice-captain since 2016.

“I probably went to a club that was furthest away and I didn’t really know too many of the boys there, but I quickly formed some strong relationships with the players.

“Going into my sixth year, I feel like the club (South) is home.

“I am very honoured to get the captaincy and I am really looking forward to the year ahead.

“Obviously the club hasn’t had too much success in terms of premierships for a while but we’ve played some finals and I feel like we are pretty close.”

Rose, of Hendon, has featured in 85 games with the Panthers since joining the club ahead of the 2014 season after 50 matches at Port.

He replaces former co-skipper, Keegan Brooksby, who has joined West Coast.

Rose is keen to take his leadership qualities to another level, but reckons he will not have to change too much.

South Adelaide’s previous co-captain was Keegan Brooksby (right), who joined West Coast in the off-season. Picture: Keryn Stevens

“I try to drive the training standards and the voice at training,” he says.

“I think I give too much direction at times.

“I just make a big effort to try and form relationships with everyone involved in the club, both players and staff.”

Rose only played 12 matches last season, including South’s elimination final loss to eventual premier North Adelaide, due to a broken collarbone.

But he is injury-free and ready for the Panthers’ round one home clash with Central District on Saturday, March 30.

Jake Summerton will serve as the club’s vice-captain, while Alex Cailotto, Anthony Biemans and Ben Heaslip are also in the leadership group.