Chris Schmidt replaces departed Ryan Ferguson as West Adelaide captain

NEW West Adelaide captain Chris Schmidt says the club’s leadership group will share the load in filling the big shoes of his predecessor Ryan Ferguson.

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NEW West Adelaide captain Chris Schmidt says the club’s leadership group will share the load in filling the big shoes of his predecessor Ryan Ferguson.

Schmidt, 24, was appointed the Bloods’ skipper by a player vote last week.

He replaces four-time best and fairest winner Ferguson, who was in the role for five years before following former coach Andrew Collins to VFL club Williamstown at the end of last season.

Daniel Caire (vice-captain), Adam Hartlett (deputy vice-captain), Magarey Medallist James Ezard, Shane Birss and returning backman Ben Fisher round out the Bloods’ new-look leadership group.

“Ferg’s probably irreplaceable to be honest, particularly on field because he’s such a courageous player,” says Schmidt, a vice-captain and joint best and fairest winner last season.

“It’s a hard spot to fill but in saying that I think we’ve got enough senior players to step up that are in our leadership group that can fill that gap and pick up the slack.

“Hopefully I can lead that as well.

“As long as I’m performing week in, week out and leading by example on and off the field, that’s the main thing.”

Schmidt’s appointment, along with the arrival of new coach Mark Mickan, marks a fresh start for West.

Ferguson and Collins – catalysts of the club’s rise from wooden-spooner to 2012 grand finalist – are gone, and the squad has a host of new faces.

Midfielder Richard Newell (Brisbane), 2012 Ken Farmer Medallist Justin Hardy (Central District) and experienced swingman Andrew Hayes (Port Adelaide/Central District) headline the club’s additions.

“Everything’s going really well and we’re getting ready to go.”