NFL: Northcote Park turns to utility Paul Dirago as premiership skipper Bronik Davies steps down

VETERAN midfielder Bronik Davies has been hailed “one of the best captains ever” after relinquishing Northcote Park’s leadership role to utility Paul Dirago.

Paul Dirago has been appointed captain of Northcote Park. Picture: Stuart Walmsley.

VETERAN midfielder Bronik Davies has been hailed “one of the best captains ever” after relinquishing Northcote Park’s leadership role to utility Paul Dirago.

Davies has the led the Cougars for the past seven Northern Football League seasons, hoisting the Division 1 premiership trophy aloft in 2012 and twice being crowned Frank Rosbrook medallist (2012 and 2014) during his stint as skipper.

The on-baller will still be a member of Northcote Park’s engine room, but has handed over the captaincy due to family and work commitments.

“He has been a rock of our club,” Cougars general manager Dennis McNiece said.

“He’s one of the best captains ever and his record speaks for itself. He’s a class player and we have been lucky to have him.”

Dirago played 19 games for the Cougars last season, booting 14 goals as he swung between defence and attack and spent time in midfield.

McNiece said the former Northern Blues player was a “general on the field”.

“Between him, Bronik and Brock McLennan, they are the three pretty important leaders for us and the constants every week,” he said.

Bronik Davies has stepped down after a successful stint as Northcote Park captain. Picture: Josie Hayden.

Dirago will lead the club for the first time on Friday when it hosts reigning premier Bundoora from 7.10pm.

Last year’s preliminary finalist has a similar squad to 2017 under coach Matt McLennan, but its team will be largely dictated by VFL selection.

Tall forwards Ash Close and Jackson Starcevich (Collingwood), defender Ethan Penrith (Northern Blues), Lachlan Schultz (Williamstown), James Svarc (Coburg) and Lucas Perry (Northern Knights) could feature when their VFL or TAC Cup commitments permit.

“I suppose you almost prepare without them and when they become available it’s a bonus,” McNiece said.

The availability of Close and Starcevich, who combined for 76 goals last season, will determine whether the Cougars deploy tall timber in attack or opt for a smaller forward line.

“Plans go out the door when you haven’t got Starcevich and Close. You’re not as big and you just have to play a shorter forward line,” McNiece said.

Northcote Park is unsure whether Gerard Sutton will play this season due to travel, while Paul Steinicke is likely to have a year off.

In Division 2, Fitzroy Stars open their campaign with an away fixture against Diamond Creek on Saturday.